The official warning over a tsunami that threatened the entire east coast of New Zealand today has been downgraded to an advisory, but there is still a threat from ocean surges.

Of the 200 New Zealanders known to be in Chile, 80 have so far confirmed they are safe.

Tsunami warnings look to be cancelled as beach-goers who waited all day outside the water start heading home.

Paua fishermen are diving back into the seas and surfers are out to catch waves even as tsunami warnings stay in place.

New Zealand east coastal areas aren't out of the woods yet, with Civil Defence authorities and scientists electing keep the tsunami warning in place.

Crowds are gathering at beaches to watch the tsunami threatening New Zealand, says the coastguard.

Auckland's ferries have been cancelled and boaties warned to head for deep water as New Zealand faces a possible tsunami.

The first wave has reached the Chatham Islands, after a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Chile overnight. An official tsunami alert remains in place for New Zealand's entire east coast.

A tsunami generated by a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Chile, is expected to reach New Zealand this morning.

Official tsunami warnings are in place for the entire east coast of New Zealand after a massive earthquake in Chile overnight.

A massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck Chile early Saturday