WELLINGTON, New Zealand, January 9 — A 5.5 magnitude earthquake hit the North Island region of New Zealand early today, with shaking felt across a large area, including Wellington and the upper South Island, based on initial data from the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ). The tremor comes days after a similar seismic event, when a magnitude 5.1 earthquake was recorded roughly 802 km from Tauranga.
What Happened?
The earthquake, measured at a preliminary magnitude of 5.5, occurred near New Zealand’s North Island. The GFZ provided the initial assessment. There is no immediate information from local authorities regarding casualties, structural damage, or whether a tsunami warning has been issued for coastal areas. The quake’s exact epicenter and depth are still being confirmed.
This seismic event marks the second notable quake to hit the region within a week. On January 6, a magnitude 5.1 earthquake was recorded roughly 802 kilometers from Tauranga, a major city on the North Island. The repeat of moderate earthquakes points to ongoing seismic activity in this geologically active region, which sits on the boundary between the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates.
What was the Epicentre?
The earthquake was recorded by the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) at 8:29 am local time (NZDT) on January 9, 2026. The quake struck at an estimated depth of 100–107 km, placing it in the intermediate range near Waverley, located in the South Taranaki district, about 10 km southwest of the town. The shaking was strongly felt across central parts of the North Island. By 8:29 AM local time, more than 14,000 reports had been logged from across the central North Island, stretching from Wellington to the upper regions of the South Island.
Is New Zealand Prone to Earthquakes?
Yes. New Zealand sees thousands of earthquakes each year because it sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” While most are minor, the nation has faced major, destructive quakes, including the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. The offshore Hikurangi Subduction Zone creates an added seismic threat for the North Island region of concern.
FAQ: The New Zealand Earthquake
Q: What was the magnitude of the earthquake?
A: A preliminary magnitude of 5.5 was recorded by the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ).
Q: Where did the earthquake hit?
A: It affected New Zealand’s North Island, centred approximately 10km south-west of Waverley (South Taranaki/Whanganui region).
Q: Was there an earthquake recently?
A: Yes, on January 6, 2026, an earthquake measuring 5.1 struck about 802 kilometers from Tauranga.
This is a developing story. Updates may follow.
