A strong earthquake shook New Zealand's South Island on Tuesday morning. According to New Zealand authorities, the quake measured 6.7 on the Richter scale and struck near the Riverton coast on the southwestern shoreline at around 7:15 AM IST.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimated the earthquake's magnitude to be between 6.5 and 6.8 and reported that it occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) southwest of South Island. So far, there have been no confirmed reports of casualties or property damage, though local media suggests the intensity may have caused some destruction.

Authorities have not issued any tsunami warnings, but they have urged residents to remain alert. The earthquake caused panic among locals, leading many to rush out of their homes in fear.