Earthquake: Lower North Island coastal areas put on tsunami alert

Friday, 5 March 2021

Residents of the Tararua district coastal communities of Ākitio and Pōrangahau have been warned to stay off the beaches until the risk of a tsunami passes.

The warning to stay out of the water and off the beaches went out early this morning after strong earthquakes near the Kermadec Islands.

Pōrangahau School, which is near the river, has been evacuated as a precaution.

Principal Julie Scandrett said about 70 children had been moved to the hall on Abercromby Street.

**READ MORE:

* Tsunami threat extended to Southland

* Earthquake cluster: Tsunami threat sparks evacuation in parts of Northland

* Tsunami alert for New Zealand after third earthquake, 8.1M in Kermadec Islands

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She said the tsunami evacuation plan had been practised last term, so everybody knew what to do, and the move had gone smoothly.

Staff would look after the children there for as long as necessary, and she expected many parents would come and collect them during the day.

Tararua district controller for emergency management Peter Wimsett said the coastal areas were outside the main evacuation zone.

However, there was a risk of unusual currents and tidal surges.

Any effects were expected to reach the lower North Island coast late this morning.

The message has gone out to contacts in the communities to alert the 100s of people living in the areas.

The advice would stand until the tsunami warning was lifted.

The Manawatū District Council has put out a similar warning for Himatangi and Tangimoana beaches on the west coast of the lower North Island.

Warning signs were in place at the entrances to the beaches.

People were asked to avoid the beaches and rivers and streams nearby until otherwise advised.