Tue Mar 25 03:41:44 UTC 2025: ## Strong Earthquake Shakes New Zealand’s South Island

**Wellington, New Zealand –** A powerful 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of New Zealand’s South Island on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, prompting warnings for residents to avoid coastal areas. The National Emergency Management Agency issued advisories for Southland and Fiordland residents to stay away from beaches and marine areas due to the potential for dangerous currents.

Geonet, New Zealand’s government seismic monitor, reported that over 4,700 people felt the quake, which caused items to fall from shelves and buildings to sway, according to local media reports. One social media user described seeing their outdoor table “dancing.”

The quake’s epicenter was located approximately 160 km northwest of the Snares Islands, at a depth of 33 km (according to Geonet) or 10 km (according to the USGS). Initial reports indicated a magnitude of 7, but this was later revised to 6.7.

Authorities in Australia reported no tsunami threat to their mainland or territories. New Zealand’s location on the seismically active Ring of Fire makes such events relatively common. The situation remains under assessment.

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