A Tsunami Warning has been issued for New Zealand coastal areas following the magnitude 8.1 earthquake near the Kermadec Islands Region.

Our area is currently under assessment, but if you are on the coast it is advisable that you move to higher ground as soon as possible. 

Stay out of the water. There is a danger to swimmers, surfers, people fishing, small boats and anyone in or near the water close to shore near these areas. Now is not the time for sightseeing.

The severity of currents and surges will vary within a particular coastal area and over the period this warning is in effect.

The first wave may not be the largest. Tsunami activity will continue for several hours and the threat must be regarded as real until this warning is cancelled.

People in all New Zealand coastal areas should:

Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates, or check www.civildefence.govt.nz

Listen to local Civil Defence authorities and follow any instructions regarding evacuation of your area

Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, this includes boats)

Stay off beaches and shore areas.

People in certain east coast areas of the North Island must move immediately to high ground. These areas are: Bay of Island to Whangārei, from Matata to Tolaga Bay, and Great Barrier Island. Civil Defence says you must move immediately. 

Coastal inundation (flooding of land areas) is expected in the following areas:

The West Coast of the North Island from Cape Reinga to Ahipara.

The East Coast of the North Island from Cape Reinga to Whangarei, from Matata to Tolaga Bay, including Whakatane and Opotiki.