Magnitude 6.1 quake strikes off New Zealand coast

WELLINGTON — A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck New Zealand near Wellington on Wednesday (Feb 15) at a depth of 48km (30 miles), government seismic monitor Geonet said.

The earthquake's epicentre was 50km from the town of Paraparaumu, according to Geonet.

A Reuters witness felt a strong shaking that lasted several seconds in the capital of Wellington.

New Zealand lies on the seismically active "ring of fire", a 40,000km arc of volcanoes and ocean trenches girdling much of the Pacific Ocean.

This comes after Cyclone Gabrielle caused significant damage across the North Island this week leaving four people dead, more than 10,000 people displaced and widespread damage.

ALSO READ: Air New Zealand resumes services to all airports after cyclone-led cancellations