M3.4 Earthquake Near Whangarei, New Zealand
A minor magnitude 3.4 earthquake struck 575 km north-east of Whangarei, New Zealand at a deep focal depth of 300.0 km, releasing seismic energy equivalent to approximately 2 tons of TNT. Tracked live on Earthquake Today, here is the verified GeoNet telemetry, interactive epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
(575 km north-east of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
3.4M
Minor Seismic Class
300.0km
Deep Mantle
32.861° S, 179.576° E
GPS Coordinates
2 tons
TNT Equivalent Power
GeoNet
GNS Science (NZ)
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 3.4 event is classified as a minor earthquake. Often felt by people indoors, especially on upper floors. Hanging objects may swing slightly; structural damage is extremely rare.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
Felt by almost no one except under extraordinarily favorable conditions.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near New Zealand.
Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.
What Does Magnitude 3.4 Mean?
Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:
Logarithmic Energy Multiplier
Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
New Zealand straddles the boundary between the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates. In the South Island, the Alpine Fault accommodates oblique strike-slip motion, while the Hikurangi Subduction Zone off the North Island generates subduction earthquakes along the southwestern edge of the Ring of Fire.
Originating at a depth of 300.0 km (Deep Mantle Transition Zone (>300 km)), this rupture occurred generated deep within earth's mantle under immense hydrostatic pressure. surface shaking is significantly damped despite large energy release.
Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors
Micro-tremors and minor events of this scale are part of ongoing background tectonic relaxation. While isolated micro-aftershocks may occur, the likelihood of a damaging secondary event remains statistically low under normal seismic conditions.
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Earthquake Safety Action Plan
Complete Safety Guide →- •Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Take cover beneath a sturdy table or desk.
- •Stay indoors away from exterior glass windows and heavy unanchored fixtures.
- •If outdoors, move into an open area away from power lines and building facades.
- •Inspect utilities for damaged gas lines, water leaks, or electrical hazards.
- •Expect Aftershocks: Secondary tremors frequently strike after significant events.
- •Avoid damaged structures and listen to official emergency broadcasts.
- •Maintain a 72-hour emergency go-bag with water, food, and first aid.
- •Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to structural studs.
- •Establish a family emergency communication protocol and meeting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions and answers about this earthquake.
No. No tsunami warning, watch, or advisory was issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) or the USGS for this M3.4 event. The focal depth (300.0 km) and magnitude did not generate sufficient vertical seafloor displacement to trigger a hazardous tsunami wave.
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