M4.5 Earthquake Pauanui, New Zealand

On May 5, 2026 at 09:37 UTC, a magnitude 4.5 shallow crustal earthquake struck 129 km ENE of Pauanui, New Zealand, at a depth of 10.0 km and coordinates -36.6416°, 177.2415°. This earthquake was detected by 41 seismic stations with moderate location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 312, placing it among routine seismic activity.

Physical scale: An earthquake of magnitude 4.5 releases seismic energy equivalent to roughly 85 metric tons of TNT. Empirical fault-scaling laws (Wells & Coppersmith, 1994) estimate the subsurface rupture length at approximately 767 m — a useful intuition for the size of the slip patch on the fault.

This earthquake is part of an ongoing aftershock sequence following the magnitude 5.8 mainshock that occurred 3 hours ago 127 km ENE of Pauanui, New Zealand. Since the mainshock, the USGS has recorded 2 aftershocks in this area. Aftershock activity is expected to continue for days to weeks as stresses on surrounding faults redistribute.

The epicenter is located in New Zealand, a region characterized by the Hikurangi subduction zone in the North Island and the Alpine Fault in the South Island. The nearest mapped fault system is the Alpine Fault. View all earthquakes in New Zealand.

Learn more: Magnitude scale · Aftershock sequences

Common Questions

How strong was the magnitude 4.5 earthquake near Pauanui, New Zealand?

The magnitude 4.5 earthquake that struck 129 km ENE of Pauanui, New Zealand on May 5, 2026 at 09:37 UTC had a depth of 10.0 km. For context, this was a light earthquake commonly felt near the epicenter.

Where did the earthquake occur?

The earthquake epicenter was located at -36.6416°, 177.2415°, which is 129 km ENE of Pauanui, New Zealand. View all earthquakes in New Zealand.

Were there aftershocks?

Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 4.5 earthquakes can continue for several days and gradually diminish over time.

Is this the same earthquake as the M5.8 one earlier?

No. This magnitude 4.5 earthquake is an aftershock of the larger magnitude 5.8 mainshock that occurred earlier 127 km ENE of Pauanui, New Zealand. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes triggered by stress changes from the mainshock.

Has New Zealand had earthquakes this big before?

The largest recorded earthquake in New Zealand was the M8.2 Wairarapa earthquake of January 23, 1855. Today's magnitude 4.5 event is significantly smaller than that historical record.

What should I do after an earthquake?

If you were in the affected area: check yourself and others for injuries, inspect your home for damage, and be prepared for aftershocks. For detailed guidance, see our earthquake safety guide and emergency planning resources.

M4.5 Earthquake 129 km ENE of Pauanui, New Zealand — May 5, 2026

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