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Taumarunui earthquake

Active from 25/07/2026

A magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck 5km south of Taumarunui at 4.51am on Saturday 25 July at a depth of 5km.
At this stage, there are no reports of injuries or major building damage. Power, water and communications systems are all operating.
Minor slips have been reported in the area, including on state highways. Motorists should take care while driving. For the latest state highway information, see https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner. 
If you are in danger, call 111 immediately.
Aftershocks are expected to continue. If you feel them, Drop, Cover and Hold. If you are in bed, the best thing to do is to stay there and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
If you spot fallen power lines or other damaged power infrastructure in the Taumarunui area, call The Lines Company on 0800 367 328. If you see roading or water systems damage, contact Ruapehu District Council on 07 895 8188.
If there is property damage, take notes and photographs for insurance purposes. If people are renting, they should contact their landlord and contents insurance company as soon as possible.

Affected Districts

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Past Alerts

Waiouru - DO NOT DRINK TAP WATER

Active from 11/06/2026 to 12/06/2026

UPDATED FRI 12 JUNE 1445hrs

Waiouru - DO NOT DRINK TAP WATER

A precautionary Do Not Drink notice for the Waiouru water supply was issued on Thursday 11 June, due to a detection of aluminium in a water sample above the maximum allowable value under the Drinking Water Standards for NZ. Until further notice you are advised NOT to use tap water for:

  • Drinking – including making sachet juice/drinks
  • Making ice
  • Food preparation
  • Brushing teeth
  • Preparing infant/toddler formula 

The Do Not Drink notice is expected to stay in place until at least Saturday 13 June.

Ruapehu District Council and the NZDF have purchased 5L water bottles which have been delivered to the NZDF base. If you require drinking water, these can be collected at the carpark next to the entrance to NZDF base Waiouru.

Water is also available from the Z petrol station ithe local primary school, while bottled water is available at prominent locations around Waiouru. These water supplies will continue to be available and replenished as required.

For more information, continue to check in on this alert or visit the Ruapehu District Council Facebook page.

Affected Districts

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