Aftershocks have been continuing to shake Cantabrians after this morning's magnitude 6.0 earthquake.
The red area on this map shows where the 6.4 earthquake struck this morning. The other markers are 'felt reports' received in the area. Photo: GeoNet
The biggest - at 4.8 - was 25 kilometres west of Arthur's Pass at 5.04pm.
It was at a depth of 5 kilometres.
The 6.0 magnitude quake this morning was five kilometres deep and struck in the Southern Alps, about 30 kilometres west of Arthur's Pass.
The Earthquake Commission said it had received 17 calls about claims for damage to property since this morning's quake.
The Earthquake Commission said most inquiries were from Christchurch, and one or two from mid-Canterbury.
It said property owners had up to three months to lodge claims, which could be made over the phone or on the internet.
Geonet said that 2,700 people from Southland to Waikato reported that they had felt the earthquake.
News: 6.4 Earthquake shakes central South Island http://t.co/d0L2EBKKlQ
— GeoNet (@geonet) January 5, 2015
Seismologist John Ristau said there had been a number after-shocks already, but the strongest may still be on the way.
"With and earthquake of this size it wouldn't be unexpected to have an aftershock about magnitude 5, so it's quite possible that we will see an aftershock of that size at some point."
He said it was felt throughout Canterbury, Otago, and the West Coast.
Methven resident Liz McMillan said the shake was a rude awakening.
"It woke me up, definitely, it was more of a rolling shake than a big jolt and it sort of seemed to come in two waves."
If you felt any of the earthquakes and would like to share pictures or video with us, please email them to: iwitness@radionz.co.nz
Police have sent officers to Arthur's Pass to check for slips and road damage.
They said there had been no calls reporting damage or requesting help, and no civil defence notice has been issued.
Police in Christchurch said they felt one of the quakes.
Trains on the West Coast line have been suspended while the tracks are being checked.
Staying at daughters & had earthquake of 6.4. Short & sharp but no damage. Hope that is the end of them! Gave grandsons quick EQ tutorial!
— Trish (@TrishBertNZ) January 5, 2015
#eqnz long and rattly in Hokitika but not very strong.
— S-J O'Connor (@DrSJNZ) January 5, 2015
