6.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off New Zealand’s South Island

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7 struck off the coast near New Zealand’s South Island on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred at 14:43 local time (03:43 Greek time) in the ocean about 160 kilometers south of the nearest town, at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometers. Initially estimated at 7.0 magnitude, it was later revised to 6.8 and finally to 6.7. No casualties or damages have been reported so far, and no tsunami warning has been issued as there is no threat according to the U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Local authorities advised residents along the southern coasts to stay away from strong and unusual waves. Witnesses described the tremor as noticeable but not severe, with some reporting shaking that lasted for an extended period. New Zealand, located above a tectonic plate boundary, experiences thousands of minor earthquakes annually. However, in 2011, a devastating 6.3-magnitude quake hit Christchurch, leaving 185 people dead and causing widespread destruction.