Strong 4.8 earthquake hits South Island

The 4.8 magnitude quake struck 20km southwest of Cheviot at 10.19am. Photo / GeoNet.org.nz

A strong earthquake has been felt by more than 1100 people in the South Island.

The 4.8-magnitude quake struck north Canterbury at 10.19am.

It was 20km southwest of Cheviot at a depth of 10km.

Cheers. #CheviotEarthquake Felt like being at sea in Christchurch. Went on for ages!

— Mark Neill (@Neill_MA) November 13, 2016

Reports are coming in that it's been widely felt across the region.

Newstalk ZB caller Chris, says the earthquake felt like a sharp wobble in Christchurch.

- additional reporting by Newstalk ZB