Tsunami warning cancelled

Continue to stay away from beaches until Friday 9 October as a precaution against tidal surges and strong currents.

Updated 4.20pm:

There is little further tsunami risk to the Auckland region, but there is still a risk of waves having the potential to create tidal surges and strong currents.

As a precaution, people are advised to continue staying away from beaches, estuaries, marinas and harbour areas until Friday 9 October, as the threat of strong currents remains.

The Auckland Region Civil Defence Emergency Management Group will continue to monitor the situation.

Keep on eye on these websites for further updates: www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz or www.civildefence.govt.nz

Updated 2pm:

Read more in the media release from the Auckland Group Emergency Operations Centre.

Earlier story:

Aucklanders are advised to stay clear of east coast beaches and not go out boating due to a potential tsunami threat to New Zealand.

This follows the issuing of a potential threat advisory from the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management (MCDEM) after a magnitude 8.0 earthquake in Vanuatu today at 11.17am (New Zealand time).

The magnitude has since been revised to 7.8.

There is no confirmation that a tsunami has been generated. However, our advice is that if a tsunami was generated, it is unlikely to be destructive for New Zealand.

We advise people on the west coast from North Cape to Hokitika and on the east coast from North Cape to Auckland to stay clear of beaches and refrain from boating activities until a cancellation is issued.

The MCDEM is assessing information further with the assistance of scientific advisors.