New Zealand: A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in the southeast of North Island at around 03:18 Jan. 25

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the southeast of North Island at around 03:18 Jan. 25. The epicenter was about 26 km (16 miles) east-southeast of Dannevirke. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate-to-light shaking was probably felt in areas near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of central and southern North Island and far northern South Island. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.