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A Tsunami Warning was issued at around 3:28 am for coastal areas near the east of the North Island following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake.

An EMA alert was issued at around 4:18 am to areas under land and marine tsunami threat. Anyone who lives near the coast and felt a LONG or STRONG quake was advised to move to the nearest high ground immediately or as far inland as possible.

People who live in the areas of East Cape from Cape Runaway to Tolaga Bay were told to move immediately or to the nearest high ground out of tsunami evacuation zones.

The National Emergency Management Agency advised people not to return until an official all-clear message is given by the Civil Defence.

Evacuation advice overrides the current COVID-19 Alert Level requirements. Listen to local Civil Defence authorities and follow any instructions. If you are told to evacuate do not stay at home.

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

The first waves may have already reached East Cape from Cape Runaway to Tolaga Bay at around 3:34 am.

Tsunami activity will continue for several hours, and the threat is being treated as real until the warning is cancelled.

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.

Image: SUPPLIED/Shutterstock.com

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