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According to GeoNet, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake shook the whole of the North Island and parts of the Northern area in the South Island on Friday morning at 2:27 am.

The earthquake was 90 km deep and struck about 105 kilometres east of Te Araroa (East of the North Island).

Did you feel the shake? Send your story and experience or videos to [email protected]. *Comments have been opened below this publication. 

From the epicentre, the shake was reported to be felt mostly across the whole of the east coast.

30,000 people reported feeling the earthquake as of 2:37 am, and over 50,000 reported as of 2:48 am.

M7.4 quake causing strong shaking near Te Araroa https://t.co/RPl9vkQFW3

— GeoNet (@geonet) March 4, 2021

The National Emergency Management Agency is advising anyone who lives near the coast and felt a LONG or STRONG quake should immediately move to the nearest high ground and as far inland as they can.

Anyone near the coast who felt a LONG or STRONG quake should MOVE IMMEDIATELY to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can #EQNZ

— National Emergency Management Agency (@NZcivildefence) March 4, 2021

A Tsunami Warning was issued at around 3:28 am for coastal areas near the east of the North Island following the magnitude quake and an EMA was issued to areas under land and marine tsunami threat.

Aftershocks are expected to happen after a big earthquake; it is advised to be prepared in case any further jolts may occur.

Tips to follow after a large earthquake:
* Turn on the radio, TV or check official news websites for further updates.
* Local Civil Defence Authorities can provide detailed information about what to do in an earthquake.
* Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, this includes boats).
* Stay away from beaches and shorelines.
* Do not sightsee as it could pose dangers or risks.
* Share this information with family, neighbours and friends.
* Visit https://www.civildefence.govt.nz/ for further OFFICIAL information.

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