'Severe' Magnitude 5.9 Quake Hits North IslandPretoria Gordon, JournalistRNZ Digital reportersA strong earthquake jolted the central North Island early on Saturday. GeoNet said the 'severe' magnitude 5.9 quake happened around five kilometres southwest of Taumarunui at 4.51am. The quake was reportedly felt across much of the North Island, including Auckland, and as far as the top of the South. There had also been minor slips on the roading network, including one blockage where someone could not get out. Minor slips reportedManawatū-Whanganui Emergency Management Group urged motorists to take care while driving after minor slips were reported in the area.