Update: 5.4 magnitude earthquake recorded close to Riverton, New Zealand on June 18

Published Jul 16, 2025

SOUTHLAND DISTRICT, Southland Region—the U.S. Geological Survey reported that a 5.4 magnitude quake jolted close to Riverton Wednesday morning.

At 14:51 UTC (01:51 local time), the region was hit by a tremor. The earthquake struck at a depth of 10 km, with its epicenter about 232 km southwest of Riverton.

Did you feel it?

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

Impact and estimated losses

Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

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.

Historical information
A magnitude 6.9 earthquake 303 km northeast of this event struck Secretary Island, New Zealand on August 10, 1993 (UTC), with estimated population exposures of 5,000 at intensity VI and 2,000 at intensity VII, with no reported fatalities.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey