NZ SOUTH ISLAND SHAKEN BUT NOT STIRRED BY 7.2 MAGNITUDE QUAKE.

(From New Zealand Press Association)

Wellington, Nov 23 - South Island residents can expect a swarm of strong aftershocks over the next few weeks after a strong earthquake off the southwest coast today.

The quake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale hit at 9.26am, about 70km off the coast at a depth of 33km, the Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS) reported.

Initial reports to police showed no injuries and damage limited to items shaken from shelves across the lower South Island.

Though strong, its depth and distance off shore meant damage was unlikely, Dunedin-based GNS spokesman Geoff Clitheroe told NZPA.

However, ``There will …