**Major Earthquake Strikes Off New Zealand Coast** **Hokitika, West Coast, New Zealand** – A magnitude 6.1 earthquake, the strongest in New Zealand in 39 years, struck off the coast of Hokitika on Thursday, December 7, 2023. According to GeoNet, the quake occurred at 7:22 pm local time at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers. The quake was followed by two smaller aftershocks, a magnitude 5.6 and a magnitude 5.2, within a matter of hours. **Shaking Felt Across New Zealand** The earthquake was widely felt across New Zealand, including in the capital city of Wellington. According to GeoNet, shaking was most intense in the West Coast region and diminished in severity as it moved through the country. **Minor Damage Reported** Preliminary reports indicate that there has been some minor damage to buildings and infrastructure in the West Coast region. No injuries or fatalities have been reported at this time. **Ongoing Monitoring** GeoNet and other seismic monitoring agencies are continuing to monitor the situation and are urging residents to be prepared for further aftershocks. Residents are advised to follow official advice and take necessary precautions. **Additional Information** * The last major earthquake in New Zealand was a magnitude 6.3 that struck Christchurch in 2011, causing significant damage and loss of life. * New Zealand is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active region where earthquakes are common. * GeoNet provides real-time information on earthquakes and shaking in New Zealand: https://www.geonet.org.nz/quakes
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