Some roads are closed following a 5.9 magnitude quake which struck near Te Anau last night.
The quake struck at 9.14pm, 40km north of Te Anau, sparking an evacuation warning for coastal areas, which was cancelled around half an hour later.
According to GeoNet, more than 20,000 people reported feeling the quake - which had a depth of 51km.
Queenstown Lakes District Council said the Edith Cavell Bridge would be closed until engineers could inspect it at first light.
A further update was expected around 8.30am.
The council also advised people travelling over the Crown Range to drive carefully and be alert for rocks or debris that may have fallen onto the road as a result of the earthquake.
Aftershocks reported after 5.9 magnitude quake felt by over 20,000 Kiwis - watch on TVNZ+
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said the road into Milford has been closed since 11pm "due to potential hazards following the earthquake".
It said the route out of Milford remained open.
"An assessment will be carried out this morning. We will provide an update once the inspection has been completed," an NZTA spokesperson said.
Pat Brittenden and Mike "Chewie" Bennett were livestreaming their popular podcast Big Hairy News (BHN) when the earthquake struck.
"Oh... earthquake Pat," said Bennett.
"In Dunedin of all places," he added.
"That's quite a strong and long one. Should quickly check GeoNet there."
"Yes. I got it a second after you," replied Brittenden.
"S***, my heart's going. That wasn't too bad," he said.
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