WAITOMO DISTRICT, Waikato Region — A 5.3 magnitude quake occurred near Otorohanga on Thursday afternoon, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The USGS reported a tremor in the region at 05:25 UTC (18:25 local time). The epicenter was roughly 43 km south-southeast of Otorohanga, at a depth of 286 km.

Did you feel it?

Those who noticed the earthquake are encouraged to report it via the USGS Felt Report form. The agency has received 8 responses on its online form so far, from people saying they experienced weak shaking. Residents reported feeling the quake in a couple of cities, including Kapiti and Palmerston North, according to the USGS DYFI report.

Impact and estimated losses

The USGS categorized this as a Green Alert, which means there is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

Structure information summary

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are highly resistant to earthquake shaking, though some vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are reinforced masonry and unreinforced brick with timber floor construction.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey