5.9 magnitude earthquake strikes New Zealand: USGC

A 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck New Zealand Thursday, prompting authorities to urge people to get to higher ground.

The quake was recorded just after 9 p.m. local time on New Zealand's north island, which is about 480 miles from Christchurch, according to USGS.

A tsunami warning was issued but has since been cancelled, according to the National Emergency Management Agency.

It is the same place where a 2011 earthquake killed 185 people and caused widespread damage.

ABC News contributed to this report.