Strong Earthquake Hits New Zealand as Prime Minister Feels Tremor During Press Conference

On October 22, a 5.9 magnitude earthquake was registered in New Zealand's two largest islands. This was reported by Radio New Zealand on its website.

According to the radio station, the magnitude was initially estimated at 5.4 but was later revised upward. The epicenter was located in the central part of the North Island, with a depth of 207 kilometers.

No information about damage or casualties has been reported.

As reported by Reuters, the earthquake caused a brief interruption during a press conference held by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in the capital, Wellington. After the pause, the event, which was dedicated to the COVID-19 situation, continued, as reported by TASS.