Recent earthquakes near Wellington
Wellington sits astride several major active faults, including the Wellington Fault running through the city, near where the Pacific Plate begins subducting beneath the North Island along the Hikurangi margin. The 1855 Wairarapa earthquake (M8.2) ruptured just east of the city and raised the harbour shoreline. It is considered one of the most earthquake-exposed capital cities in the world. In the past 24 hours, Wellington has recorded no earthquakes above the reporting threshold.
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Recent earthquakes
| Magnitude | Time (UTC) | Depth | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| M3.9 | Sep 5, 18:46 UTC | 10 km | 12 km N of Rahotu, New Zealand |
Notable recent activity
An M3.9 earthquake struck 12 km N of Rahotu, New Zealand at 18:46 UTC on Sep 5 at a depth of 10 km.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wellington at risk of a major earthquake?
Yes. Several active faults, including the Wellington Fault, run through or near the capital, and the Hikurangi subduction zone lies offshore to the east. Both are capable of large earthquakes, and the city plans extensively for them.
What was the 1855 Wairarapa earthquake?
On January 23, 1855, a magnitude 8.2 earthquake ruptured the Wairarapa Fault just east of Wellington — the largest known in New Zealand's history. It uplifted land around the harbour by several metres, some of which the city is now built on.
Does Wellington get earthquakes often?
Wellington feels earthquakes frequently, most of them small, because it sits directly on an active plate boundary. Damaging events are less frequent, but its fault network and subduction zone make preparedness a constant priority.
Nearby regions
Live data from the USGS earthquake feeds. Magnitudes and depths are automated readings and may be revised. Not for emergency use.