Civil Defence retracts warning of large aftershock to hit West Coast

A warning for West Coasters to prepare for a possible significant aftershock has been retracted by Civil Defence.

A press release issued by West Coast Civil Defence said the Ministry of Civil Defence "is issuing an urgent warning regarding the possibility of a large aftershock".

After the warning was reported by media it was retracted by Civil Defence.

In a statement on the Civil Defence Facebook page, it states "contrary to some reports there is no 'imminent threat' to the West Coast from earthquakes. Neither have we issued an earthquake threat warning".

In the original, incorrect statement, Civil Defence group controller Chris Raine is quoted as saying people should stock up on supplies to last them a week, and have an emergency plan organised.