As at 0840 NZDT, 28 February 2010 wave activity is now approximately 0.5 metres at the Chatham Islands, and 0.1 metres at East Cape.
It is important to note that this is the first arrival and larger waves may follow over a period of several hours.
The situation continues to be closely monitored.

People in coastal areas should:
1. Stay off beaches
2. Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, including boating activities)
3. Do not go sightseeing
4. Share this information with family, neighbours and friends
5. Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates
6. Follow instructions of your local Civil Defence authorities.

Only messages issued by MCDEM represent the official warning status for New Zealand. Local civil defence authorities may supplement these messages by applying local threat assessments.

Confirmation has been received that a tsunami was generated. A wave measuring 2.34 metres was measured at Talcahuano, Chile and 0.35 metres at Easter Island, Chile, and at this stage, 0.2 metres in the Chatham Islands.

The first wave to arrive to the New Zealand mainland will be in the areas around East Cape and Gisborne at approximately 08.25NZDT, Sunday 28 February 2010.

The first wave may arrive later and may not be the largest.
Strong currents and unusual tidal effects may continue for several hours.

Based on preliminary modelling and comparison with historical events the interpretation of the Tsunami Experts Panel is that a marine threat (i.e. threat to beach and small boats corresponding to wave heights less than 1 metre) exists for the entire east coasts of the North and South Island from Puysegur around to Cape Reinga and extending south to Ahipara. Some land threat also exists for the Chatham Islands and Banks Peninsula i.e. wave heights between 1 and 3 metres. There may be some small observable sea level changes on parts of the west coast of both islands.

Wave heights refer to maximum water level relative to the normal sea level at the beach. This does not take tides into account. Based on historical events it is expected that the greatest wave heights couldl occur between 6 and 12 hours after the initial arrivals.

MCDEM and scientific advisors are closely monitoring the situation to determine the severity of the threat to New Zealand.

This warning has been issued to all local civil defence authorities, emergency services, other agencies and media.

 See footage of the 8.8 earthquake