A magnitude 5.7 quake has hit near St Arnaud, in the Nelson region.
The quake hit at 1.39pm and was centred 35km southeast of St Arnaud, at a depth of 48km.
It was felt as far north as Otorohanga, in Waikato, and as far south as Waikari, in Otago.
There were no initial reports of damage.
A St John spokesperson said staff had not had any calls relating to the quake.