Strong Earthquake Strikes South Island
A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit New Zealand’s South Island on March 25, 2025, shaking thousands of residents across the lower South Island. The NZ earthquake struck 155 km north-west of Snares Islands at a depth of 12 km.
Figure 1: A powerful earthquake hit off New Zealand’s southwest coast, prompting warnings for thousands of nearby residents to avoid beaches. [X/EMSC]
GeoNet classified the New Zealand earthquake as moderate, with nearly 5,000 people reporting strong shaking. The tremors were felt across Invercargill, Gore, Te Anau, Cromwell, Queenstown, and Dunedin.
Tsunami Risk Cleared but Caution Urged
Officials from New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) assessed the earthquake and confirmed no tsunami risk for land. However, they warned of strong and unpredictable currents along coastal areas.
“People in or near the sea in the following areas should move out of the water, off beaches and shore areas and away from harbours, marinas, rivers, and estuaries,” NEMA stated.
The west coast of the South Island, from Milford Sound to Puysegur Point, remains under caution.
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Residents Report Strong Shaking
Thousands of people across New Zealand reported the NZ earthquake today to GeoNet’s website. Many shared their experiences on social media.
One resident wrote, “We had things fall off the shelf.” Another described their outdoor wooden table shaking.
Tuatapere Four Square owner Mark Hewton told RNZ News: “It was a very soft rolling earthquake. It wasn’t aggressive, and I don’t see any damage. But it was enough to make you stop and think about getting under a doorframe.”
A Small Tsunami Was Recorded
Though no major tsunami was triggered, a small 10cm tsunami was observed at Puysegur Point for about 90 minutes.
GNS Seismic Duty Officer Sam Taylor-Offord explained, “The models showed a tsunami of 30cm or larger was possible, but modelling often leans more conservatively.”
Due to the remote nature of the Puysegur area, data collection remains a challenge. Taylor-Offord noted that researchers often wait 30 to 60 minutes to confirm whether a tsunami risk exists.
Experts Call for More Research on NZ Earthquakes
Victoria University senior research fellow Finn Illsley-Kemp stated that the Puysegur subduction zone, where this earthquake occurred, remains poorly understood.
“It’s very hard to do research down there, and so we have limited understanding of the tectonic processes happening,” he said.
“That part of the country is sparsely populated compared to the North Island, so more research is needed.”
A research team from Victoria University is currently deploying seismometers on nearby islands to improve data collection on earthquakes in New Zealand.
More Earthquakes Recorded in New Zealand
This 6.8 magnitude South Island NZ earthquake today wasn’t the only tremor in the region. In the last three days, multiple New Zealand earthquakes were recorded, including:
- 1 magnitude equick at 150 km north-west of Snares Islands (March 25, 10:04 PM)
- 0 magnitude equick at 155 km north-west of Snares Islands (March 25, 3:56 PM)
- 5 magnitude equick near Wellington (March 25, 3:43 AM)
- 7 magnitude equick near Tokomaru Bay (March 24, 3:34 PM)
- 8 magnitude equick near St Arnaud (March 23, 11:09 PM)
These frequent in New Zealand highlight the country’s seismic activity.
Figure 2: Interactive Map Showing Recent Earthquakes in New Zealand [GeoNet]
Government Issues Emergency Alert
Minister for Emergency Management Mark Mitchell confirmed that an Emergency Mobile Alert was sent out for South Island residents.
“Evacuations are NOT required, but there is potential danger near the shoreline. We are asking people to stay away from the beach and water,” Mitchell stated.
No Reports of Major Damage
Despite the strong shaking, the Southland District Council reported no immediate damage. However, authorities urge residents to stay cautious and prepare for aftershocks.
New Zealand’s Seismic Future
As NZ activity continues, experts stress the need for ongoing monitoring and research. The Puysegur subduction zone, where the NZ today occurred, requires further investigation to understand future risks.
While no significant tsunami or damage resulted from the South Island NZ earthquake today, the event serves as a reminder of New Zealand’s seismic vulnerability. Residents should stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and prepare for future tremors.
