NZ hit by large earthquake

Reports a large earthquake has hit the middle of New Zealand shortly after midnight. Fortunately, there have been no reports of major casualties so far. A tsunami has been reported to have hit alongside the east coast. Earthquakes are quite common in New Zealand as it rests along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Daylight will be breaking in the next few hours to allow for a better view of the damage. Personally, all my family and friends in New Zealand are OK.