Breaking: There’s been another earthquake in New Zealand

Just eight days after a major earthquake killed two people on New Zealand’s South Island, there’s been another strong quake.

This time the earthquake struck off the coast of the North Island. Due to the nature of the breaking news, there has been conflicting reports.

While Reuters is reporting a 6.3 magnitude quake, the New Zealand Herald is reporting a 5.6 magnitude earthquake. However, official reports say the earthquake which struck 138 km (86 miles) from Palmerston North at a depth of 37 km (23 miles), rattled at a 5.6 magnitude. 

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre did not issue a tsunami warning.

Thousands of aftershocks have been registered since a magnitude 7.8 quake struck near Christchurch in the early hours of November 14.

More details will be reported once they become available.

Follow this live blog for more updates on the earthquake.

UPDATE 11.48am AEST: The 5.6 magnitude quake struck at 1.21pm 70km south east of Porangahau, at a depth of 40km. Originally reported as a 5.4 magnitude, the US Geological Service revised the reading to 5.6 magnitude.

UPDATE 2.27pm AEST: According to GeoNet ‏Twitter, a 3.0 magnitude quake caused weak shaking near Seddon.

UPDATE 2.41pm AEST: Light shaking near Seddon has grown from 2.0 magnitude to 3.8 magnitude.

UPDATE 2.50pm AEST: M3.2 quake causing weak shaking near Kaikoura.

UPDATE 4.39pm AEST: M4.6 quake causing moderate shaking near Culverden.

Read more: Powerful earthquake strikes Japan

The earthquake comes just hours after a major earthquake triggered small tsunamis along Japan’s east coast.

It’s not clear at this stage if there has been any damage reported.

Read more: Powerful 7.8 magnitude quake hits New Zealand

The quake follows thousands of after shocks after last week’s earthquake.

Are you in the area? Do you know anyone who might be affected?