New Zealand Mail 23 Jan 1885 page 8 column d

EARTHQUAKE. Two earthshocks were felt in town last night
week at about seven minutes past 6 o'clock. The first did not
appear to last more than a second or two, but the succeeding
one which ensued within about a couple of minutes, was
prolonged for eight or ten seconds. Neither shock was
sufficiently violent to effect any damage, but both were
distinct enough to be very generally felt. The tremors were
by no means local, as will be perceived by the telegrams
below. The movements appeared to be from north to south. At
Blenheim the first shock appears to have been longer than the
second, but in this city the reverse was the case, although
possibly the first tremor did not attract attention in its
initial stage.

Wanganui, Jan 15. A smart shock of earthquake was felt here
this evening. It lasted some seconds, the direction being from
north to south.

Woodville, Jan 15. Two unusually sharp shocks of earthquake
were experienced here at 6.10pm to-day.

Blenheim, Jan 15. A sharp shock of earthquake was felt here at
ten minutes past 6, the vibration being from north to south and
lasting nine or ten seconds, followed by a slighter shock half
a minute afterwards. The weather is gloomy and threatening.

Nelson, Jan 15. Two earthquake shocks were experienced here at
ten minutes past 6.

Christchurch, Jan 15. A light shock of earthquake was felt here
at 6.10pm.