Strong 6.2-magnitude quake felt across central New Zealand

Wellington, Oct 30: An earthquake measuring 6.2 magnitude has struck near the New Zealand city of New Plymouth, with residents as far as the South Island feeling the event.

The quake was initially reported as 6.7M.

It struck at a depth of 193km about 35km south-west of Taumarunui.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said there had been no reports of damage and there is no tsunami risk, according to civil defence.

New Zealand's parliament, sitting at the time, was suspended after the prolonged rumble to allow for the precinct's buildings to be checked.

The earthquake comes as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, are visiting New Zealand's north island, however they are currently more than 300km north in Auckland.