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A tsunami advisory will remain in place for New Zealand overnight, Civil Defence says.
The tsunami warning has been downgraded to an advisory earlier on Sunday. The advisory means there is still potential for some wave action to cause problems in areas, particularly in Banks Peninsula and the Chatham Islands.
National Civil Defence Controller Alan Walker says the tsunami was at the lower end of the scale which was predicted by GNS Science.
However, there is still a likelihood of surges and rapid sea level changes continuing for up to 24 hours.
Waves of up to 1 metre could still hit the east coasts of the North and South Islands, which poses a threat to people in boats, on beaches and in coastal communities.
Prime Minister John Key earlier issued a statement warning people to stay away from low-lying areas.
"While the impact (of the tsunami) so far appears to be at the lower end of the scale, the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management is still warning the public to stay away from low-lying areas and keep off the water," he says.
"I have spoken to Civil Defence Minister John Carter, who is pleased with the way the Ministry, emergency services, local authorities, and volunteers have responded across the country."
The advisory status will be reviewed at 8am on Monday.
Do you have images or video of the wave action in your area? Send them to news@tvnz.co.nz or submit them via Your Cam.
