Thousands are reporting feeling a shallow earthquake in Christchurch.

Geonet reports the moderate magnitude 3.9 quake hit ten minutes ago at a depth of seven kilometres, five kilometres south-west of the city.

It was centered near Halswell Junction Rd west of the central city.

The quake was felt by many across Christchurch - including Newstalk ZB's Simon Barnett and Phil Gifford, who were on air at the time it struck.

A shopper in Riccarton Mall said walls shook and the quake sounded like someone jumping on the roof.

It has been felt as far as Auckland, according to GeoNet.

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