Update: Earthquake hits region close to Riverton, New Zealand on Jan. 18 – 5.3 magnitude reported

Published Feb 7, 2026

SOUTHLAND DISTRICT, Southland Region — A 5.3 magnitude quake was detected near Riverton Sunday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

A tremor shook the area at 16:45 UTC (03:45 local time). The earthquake’s epicenter was situated approximately 290 km southwest of Riverton and occurred at a depth of 27 km. The magnitude was originally reported as 5.1 but later upgraded to 5.3.

Did you feel it?

You can let the USGS know if you felt the quake by filling out their Felt Report form.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey