"Confirmation tsunami has been generated

There is confirmation the earthquakes in the Pacific have generated a tsunami.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has not given details on the height of the wave.

A tsunami warning is in place for New Zealand, with the public advised to stay away from beaches."

Source: [link to nz.news.yahoo.com]

And...

"Tsunami watch issued after Vanuatu quake

The Ministry of Civil Defence is issuing a tsunami watch for New Zealand following two sizeable earthquakes near Vanuatu today.

A quake north of Vanuatu measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale struck at 9.03am local time (11.03 NZT) and was followed by another 7.3 tremor 15 minutes later.

Spokesman Vince Cholewa told NZPA the ministry was issuing the advisory to all emergency services including police, fire, coast guard and local authorities, so they could be put on standby.

"We're advising people to not be on beaches or in the immediate vicinity of the coast and to not be in boats near the coast," Mr Cholewa said.

Should a tsunami reach New Zealand, it will hit at the following times:

* North Cape - 2.34pm

* East Cape - 3.16pm

* Auckland (West) - 3.33pm

* Gisborne - 3.49pm

* New Plymouth - 4.10pm

* Auckland (East) - 4.14pm

* Napier - 4.29pm

* Milford Sound - 4.35pm

* Wellington - 4.39pm

* Westport - 4.50pm."

Source: [link to nz.news.yahoo.com]