The National Emergency Management Agency and GNS Science are assessing whether the M7.3 EAST OF THE NORTH ISLAND NEW ZEALAND earthquake at 2021-03-05 2:27 AM has created a tsunami that could affect New Zealand, says a post on the Civil Defence website.

"LONG OR STRONG, GET GONE: People near the coast who felt a LONG OR STRONG earthquake that made it hard to stand up, or lasted longer than a minute, should MOVE IMMEDIATELY to the nearest high ground, out of all tsunami evacuation zones, or as far inland as possible.

"This evacuation advice overrides the current COVID-19 Alert Level requirements. Do not stay at home if you are near the coast and felt the earthquake LONG or STRONG. Evacuate immediately to the nearest high ground, out of all tsunami evacuation zones or as far inland as possible. Stay 2 metres away from others if you can and it is safe to do so.

"Do not return until an official all-clear message is given by Civil Defence.

"Walk, run or cycle if at all possible to reduce the chances of getting stuck in traffic congestion.

"If a tsunami has been generated, the first wave may not be the most significant. Tsunami activity will continue for several hours and the threat is real until this warning is cancelled."

People in coastal areas should:

• Follow the "long OR strong, get gone" guidance above
• Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates, and NZCivilDefence Twitter
• Listen to local Civil Defence authorities
• Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, this includes boats)
• Stay off beaches and shore areas
• Do not go sightseeing
• Share this information with family, neighbours and friends

"We will provide an update as soon as the initial assessment has been completed. Updates will be published on our website www.civildefence.govt.nz and Twitter @NZCivilDefence.

"Only messages issued by the National Emergency Management Agency represent the official warning status for New Zealand."