A moderate earthquake rattled Wellington on Thursday evening, prompting brief concern but causing no significant damage. Reported by RNZ.
According to GeoNet, the magnitude 4.9 quake struck at 9:09 p.m. in the Cook Strait, about 25 km west of Wellingtonand 22 km deep. It was initially reported as magnitude 5.1 before being revised down.
Residents across Wellington reported hearing a rumble moments before feeling the tremor. Some received mobile alerts just before buildings began to shake. Despite the intensity, Fire and Emergency New Zealand confirmed there were no callouts or reported damage.
Metlink imposed a 40 km/h speed restriction across all rail lines as a precaution, warning commuters of delays.
A smaller aftershock of magnitude 3.5 followed at 10:28 p.m., about 20 km northwest of Wellington, and was felt by over 1,500 people, according to GeoNet.
One resident said, “The shaking had me rushing to a doorway — then it was over!” Others at performances, including The Nutcracker ballet and a concert at the Opera House, reported feeling brief jolts but noted the events continued without disruption.
GNS Science spokesperson Elisabetta D’Anastasio explained that shaking intensity depended on proximity to the epicentre, local ground conditions, and building structure. She said aftershocks were possible overnight.
“New Zealanders must always stay prepared — this region records around 20 quakes between magnitude four and five each year,” D’Anastasio added.
Authorities reminded the public to “Drop, Cover, and Hold” during future quakes and, if in bed, stay put and use a pillow to protect the head.