7.0 earthquake felt in Bay of Plenty
GeoNet said the earthquake was centred 60 km south of Opunake at a focal depth of 230 km at 10:36pm.
"Because of the depth of the quake it was felt widespread and the likelihood of causing major damage was very unlikely" GeoNet says.
The earthquake was felt through out central New Zealand including Te Kuiti to Canterbury.
Reports from Opotiki, Whakatane, Kawerau, Rotorua, Tepuke and Tauranga.
A women in Hawera said it was one of the scariest times in her life.
"A few photos and ornaments fell off the shelf and broke but everyone is well and safe and that's the main thing"
No major damage was reporter and no tsunami warnings were issued.