Tsunami warnings have been lifted after this morning's 8.1 magnitude earthquake in the Kermadec Islands but people still shouldn't go near or in the water.

Anyone who evacuated can return home.

Civil Defence says the threat level has been downgraded to a beach and marine threat and GNS Science says the largest waves have passed.

Emergency Management Minister Kiri Allan spoke to Simon Barnett and Phil Gifford once the evacuate warning was lifted.

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