Over a thousand people have reported feeling a 6.0 magnitude earthquake off the lower South Island in the early hours of Tuesday morning (8 Jul).

The earthquake hit 115km north-west of Snares Islands at 12.53am, but was felt around much of Southland and Otago regions, and as far as Nelson and Wellington.

Almost 1200 people have reportedly felt the quake, with GeoNet marking it at a depth of 12km.

In March, another 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Snares Islands, causing strong currents to South Island's shore.

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