New Zealand Earthquake Appeal - November 2016

New Zealand has been left devastated after a series of earthquakes, including one measuring 7.5 in magnitude, struck the south island, with the country's Prime Minister confirming at least 2 deaths.

New Zealand has experienced multiple earthquake tremors (photo: CNN)

A tsunami later ensued, leading thousands of people on the east coast to flee their homes after a national emergency broadcast alerted residents to move to higher ground.

The tremors led to waves up to two metres high, affecting multiple towns on the coast, including the Kaikoura area.

The Civil Defence Ministry described the tsunami as "an event of life-threatening or national significance".

It tweeted: "A tsunami has been generated, the first wave has arrived in the North Eastern Coast of the South Island...if you are in a low lying area on the East Coast of the North, South or Chatham Islands move immediately to higher ground."

St John Ambulance said it was sending helicopters to the epi-centre of the quake - 57 miles (91km) north of the South Island city of Christchurch.

UPDATE: New Zealand #earthquake upgraded to magnitude 7.8. #Tsunami has been generated: https://t.co/XkfVNPpMzApic.twitter.com/aUzv9I5FTm

— The Weather Channel (@weatherchannel) November 13, 2016

The quake hit just after midnight local time on November 13th, 2016. The initial tremor was followed by aftershocks, including several above magnitude 6.

GeoNet, New Zealand's official source of geological hazard information, listed dozens of quakes in the following hours, ranging in severity between 3.8 and 6.6.

Strong jolts were also felt in Wellington, some 120 miles (200km) north and there was gridlock on roads leading to Mount Victoria - a hill overlooking the capital.

The CFMO would like to take this opportunity to wish all our supporters in New Zealand well, and encourage those wishing to help the recovery effort to donate to the New Zealand Red Cross.

You can also contribute via our donation page over the next 7 days, of which, all proceeds will be donated to affiliated charities and recovery efforts in New Zealand, aiding those who have lost their homes and family members.



Those interested can also keep up to date with the latest recorded tremors by visiting the GeoNet official website.

New Zealand based website Stuff.co.nz are also offering a live information feed regarding ongoing tremors and local rescue centres throughout affected areas.