Over 100 Aftershocks Felt After Powerful NZ Earthquake; 5.9 Magnitude Quake Predicted (VIDEOS)

(Source: YouTube/ITN)

Aftershocks continue to shake New Zealand's North Island, following the powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake that struck on Jan 20. Train services and power in the lower North Island have been restored.

When the earthquake shook central New Zealand before 4 pm (1400 ADT), buildings were damaged, while power was cut in some areas. No one was seriously injured due to the quake.

The earthquake was felt widely throughout New Zealand. Its epicenter was identified at 15km east of Eketahuna at a depth of 33km. People reported feeling the earthquake from central Hawke's Bay and Manawatu through Wellington.

The earthquake hit on Wellington's anniversary holiday which helped reduce panic and chaos. The extent of damage to buildings and structures will not be known until people return to work after the holiday.

According to Fire Service communications spokesperson Jan Wills, the damage from the earthquake was "limited." An apartment building in Masterton had cracks after the quake, which led authorities to instruct residents to evacuate.

The strong earthquake knocked down a giant eagle sculpture that used to hang in Wellington airport's dining area. The eagle which was used to promote The Hobbit movie fell down after the quake.

New Zealand's Civil Defence confirmed no major damage to water systems in the region. Bridges and roads cracks or slips are currently inspected to assess the damage.

GeoNet has recorded several aftershocks overnight. The biggest magnitude was 4.2 that struck 3:30 am local time and another 3.9 magnitude quake after midnight. Since the earthquake hit, more than 100 aftershocks have been felt. The smallest aftershock registered at 2.1 in magnitude. Residents of lower North Island were warned of more aftershocks.

Meanwhile, bad weather is delaying the efforts of engineers to restore power to some areas that were cut off after the earthquake. Electric company Powerco has yet to restore power to 120 homes in central North Island.

The severe weather brought by ex-Cyclone John has affected faults on the power network around Manawatu and Taranaki. PowerCo spokesperson Dean Stevenson said power is expected to return within the day but the changes in weather may cause more damage.

Based on GeoNet's calculations, the first week after the powerful earthquake might result in two aftershocks reaching up to 5.9 in magnitude.