Kaikoura shakes in 4.9 magnitude quake

A 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck near Kaikoura this afternoon.

The quake at 4.45pm was 12km deep, 20km east of Kaikoura, GNS Science said. It was widely felt on the east coast of the South Island.

Further south, five aftershocks of magnitude 3 and stronger shook Christchurch and surrounding regions today.

There have been frequent aftershocks since February 22`s deadly 6.3 quake that devastated parts of Christchurch.

- NZPA