Authorities in New Zealand say they have been hit by five severe earthquakes over the space of four hours with thousands fleeing their homes.
A tsunami warning is in force – with waves predicted to reach five metres high.
TV New Zealand reports that one person has died of a heart attack in Christchurch.
There are also reports of casualties at Kaikoura on the South Island where 2 metre high waves followed the largest 7.8 magnitude quake.
Dawn has now broken and rescue helicopters are hoping to assess the damage more accurately from the air.
As yet there are no reports of any Irish casualties.
The Department of Foreign Affairs HERE says they have not received any request for assistance but are continuing to monitor the situation.
New Zealand's Ministry of Civil Defence has issued a warning of further tsunamis from East Cape to Southland.
Hugh Sintes lives in Christchurch – he says they are used to earthquakes, but there was something different about this one.
As yet there are no reports of any Irish casualities following today's earthquake and tsunami in New Zealand.
The Department of Foreign Affairs HERE says they have not received any requests for assistance but are continuing to monitor the situation.
The Fire Department is dealing with emergency calls in the town of Christchurch, New Zealand, following the quake – but as yet, officials say there are no reports of serious damage, injuries or fatalities.
