An alert from the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) says widespread hazardous tsunami waves are possible for parts of the Pacific.
Areas issued tsunami warnings include Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea , Pohnpei , Vanuatu , Chuuk, Indonesia, Nauru and Kosrae.
Initial reports suggest the earthquake struck at a depth of 154km.
The quake was initially recorded at 8.0M.
More to come.
- NZ Herald