New Zealand hit by two earthquakes

A 6.1 magnitude earthquake has struck off the west coast of New Zealand's South Island this morning.

It was followed about two hours later by a 5.2 magnitude aftershock.

There are no immediate reports of damage and no tsunami warning has been issued.

Christchurch, which is also on the South Island, was battered by a powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake in February last year which left 181 people dead and destroyed much of its centre.