Magnitude 6.0 earthquake hits New Zealand

Wellington: A 6.0 magnitude earthquake shook New Zealand's South Island.

According to media reports, the earthquake occurred at 09:14 am. The nature of the earthquake was mild. The epicenter was Geraldine and the depth was recorded at 11 km.

No injuries or significant damage have been reported so far. According to the United States Geological Survey, the magnitude of the earthquake was recorded at 5.6.

But according to New Zealand's GeoNet service, the magnitude of the earthquake was recorded at 6.0.

It is pertinent to note that earlier in 2011, the South Island of Christchurch was severely damaged by a magnitude 6.3 earthquake.