Earthquake hits New Zealand

Environment Posted on 04/07/2012

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A powerful earthquake hit the west coast of New Zealand on 3rd July. Despite the size of the shake, there are currently no travel restrictions in place.

Holiday-makers can still travel to New Zealand this summer without concern. However, it is important that any traveller to the island knows what to do in the event of an earthquake. Civil Defence Minister Chris Tremain reminded New Zealanders after the tremble that "the message is very simple Drop, Cover and Hold." He added: "A major earthquake could happen anywhere and people need to know what to do when that happens."

Visitors to New Zealand should equally bear in mind that New Zealand is earthquake prone. Not every tremble causes damage, but British travellers should monitor travel advice issued by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office before setting off. The earthquake was centred in the Tamsin Sea, roughly 170 km northwest of the capital Wellington and measured a high magnitude of 7.0. Nonetheless, there has been no report of injury, serious destruction or tsunami threats.

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In brief : Environment