A MAGNITUDE 7.4 EARTHQUAKE has struck New Zealand’s south island. The quake struck at 4.35am local time, 30km west of Christchurch.

PA reports that a tsunami alert has not been issued and no injuries have been reported. Serious power shortages have been reported in the quake-struck area.

New Zealand’s Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergeny Management (MCDEM) is assessing the situation, but has warned people in the area struck by the earthquake to expect, and prepare for, aftershocks.

Assess your home or workplace for damage. If the building appears unsafe get everyone out. When outside, watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines. Stay out of damaged areas.

It says people should listen to the radio for updates on emergency instructions.

New Zealand Herald journalist Jarrod Booker described being woken by “extremely violent shaking”, sand said there have been a number of less severe aftershocks.

The strongest aftershock so far has registered 4.6 on the Richter scale.

Radio New Zealand will be bringing live updates of the situation throughout its programming.

Earlier, the station inadvertently played “Good Vibrations” by the Beach Boys. The presenter afterwards apologised.