A magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit the Kermadec Islands region, north of New Zealand, at about 2pm this afternoon.

The earthquake prompted a tsunami warning by the US Tsunami Warning System.

On Facebook post, NZ Civil Defence says there is "no tsunami threat" to New Zealand following the quake.

"Remember, if an earthquake is long or strong, get gone," the post reads.

"For more info about tsunami preparedness go to www.getready.govt.nz.

The United States Geological Survey, USGS, says the quake struck about 22km deep.

- Additional reporting by RNZ.