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'Strong' 5.1 magnitude quake rattles Wellington, top of South Island

By 1News Reporters
December 17, 2024
Over 5000 "felt reports" were received by GeoNet by 5.50pm, with many reports of shaking in the Wellington, Tasman, and Marlborough regions.

Over 5000 "felt reports" were received by GeoNet by 5.50pm, with many reports of shaking in the Wellington, Tasman, and Marlborough regions. (Source: GeoNet)

Thousands have reported feeling a "strong" quake that shook the middle of the country during rush hour.

Shaking was felt in Wellington in the lower North Island and in the upper South Island.

The 5.1-magnitude tremor was centred 15km southeast of Seddon in Marlborough, at a depth of 12km, according to GeoNet data.

GNS Science classed the quake as "strong", having struck at about 5.39pm.

In a tweet, NZ First List MP Jenny Marcroft said the quake caused a "bit of a shake in the house!".

More than 5000 "felt reports" were received by GeoNet by 5.50pm, with reports of shaking in the Wellington, Tasman, and Marlborough regions.

New ZealandEarthquakesWellingtonTasmanNelson

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