Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand, near Christchurch

A powerful earthquake struck New Zealand about 95 kilometers northeast of Christchurch, early Monday, local time.

The US Geological Survey said the magnitude 7.8 quake struck just after midnight, Sunday. It was a relatively shallow depth of about 10 kilometers.

Authorities in New Zealand have reported the quake generated a tsunami with the first waves hitting South Island.

There have been no immediate reports of major damage or injuries in Christchurch.

Christchurch is still recovering from the 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people and destroyed the city centre.

The  jolt was felt over 200 kilometers away causing minor damage in the capital of Wellington.

New Zealand lies on the notorious Ring of Fire, the line of frequent quakes and volcanic eruptions that circles virtually the entire Pacific rim.