by Selwyn Manning
Much of New Zealand has this morning been shaken by an earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter Scale.
The quake hit at 9.32am [New Zealand Time], and was centered 5 km west-north-west of Taupo, and at a depth of 164 km.
It was felt widely throughout the North Island, and as far south as Christchurch in the South Island.
There have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
Witnesses say the earthquake felt like a strong rolling motion and was heard to rumble loudly as it approached. The
quake lasted between 60 and 90 seconds.