Japanese researchers believe they may be closer to predicting an earthquake, but it hasn't come without criticism.

Another study suggesting a link between tides and earthquakes is once again being debunked.

After 20 years research of quakes with a magnitude of 5.5 or higher, University of Tokyo academics said they have found a link between high tide and large earthquakes.

They said it could indicate a greater likelihood of events following a new, or full moon.

But University of Melbourne Associate Professor Mark Quigley said the figures aren't conclusive and warns earthquakes have many triggers.

He said that this is just a hypothesis and not an absolute finding.

"I don't disagree that tidal effects can have some role in earthquake nucleation, but I think that really its earthquakes that occur beforehand, and these instances seem to have a much stronger control."

Mr Quigley said researchers should be focusing more on minimalising the impact of earthquakes, instead of predicting them.

"We know that the giant subductions have the potential to generate a magnitude nine earthquake."

"So whether it occurs on a new moon or a full moon, the study that these guys are talking about is not going to reduce the number of people that are drowned by a tsunami."

He said the 5.7 magnitude earthquake that occurred near Christchurch in February didn't occur near any major tidal events.