Category SOUTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND

Magnitude 5.9 Earthquake at Depth 68 km Strikes South Island of New Zealand on 16th July 2026

Diagram of tectonic plates beneath New Zealand showing earthquake epicenter, focus, and seismic waves

A magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck the South Island of New Zealand on 16th July 2026, occurring at 09:14 UTC. The quake originated at a depth of 68 km, placing it within the category of intermediate‑depth seismic events. These types of…