5.3 quake near Samoa

File photo / Jim Eagles

A 5.3 magnitude earthquake has struck off the coast of the Samoa Islands this morning, however a tsunami watch has not been issued.

The quake hit at 1.05am Samoan time (2.05am NZT), 245km west-south-west of Apia at a depth of 35km, according to the United States Geological Survey.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has not issued a warning or a watch.

- NZHERALD STAFF