A third massive earthquake occurred at 8.28am (NZT), sparking another tsunami alert from the National Emergency Management Agency.
“People near coast from the BAY OF ISLANDS to WHANGAREI, from MATATA to TOLAGA BAY, and GREAT BARRIER ISLAND must MOVE IMMEDIATELY to nearest high ground, out of all tsunami evacuation zones, or as far inland as possible,” the warning said.
Residents in these areas are being told to evacuate immediately even if they did not feel the earthquake, as a “damaging tsunami is possible”.
People in other areas who felt a long and strong earthquake are also being told to move immediately to the nearest higher ground or as far inland as possible.
Civil Defence says people evacuating should walk, run or cycle if they can to reduce the chance of getting stuck in traffic.
The 8.1 magnitude quake occurred near the Kermadec Islands. It’s the third earthquake this morning, following a 7.4 quake near the Kermadec Islands, and a 7.1 quake off New Zealand’s east coast.
Stay up to date with the latest Civil Defence warnings here.
TSUNAMI WARNING: Areas that need to evacuate are indicated on this map. Evacuate these areas even if you did not feel the earthquake. DO NOT WAIT. A damaging tsunami is possible. More info at https://t.co/ccVFYQQoBr pic.twitter.com/bnEgZy8ikF
— National Emergency Management Agency (@NZcivildefence) March 4, 2021