A devastating earthquake could strike Auckland at any moment, according to scientists who have identified an active fault line running through the city.

The Mangatangi Fault's 10,000-year history

The Mangatangi Fault , which runs alongside the Hunua Ranges in South Auckland, has been classified as 'active' after analysis revealed that it last ruptured around 10 ,000 years ago.

This means that the fault has moved within the past 10,000 years, which is deemed active.

Experts predict that if the fault ruptures again, it could cause a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake,which would have serious consequences for the 1.8 million people living in Auckland.

Auckland's level of hazard: a growing concern

The risk remains low, according to Dr Muirhead, but Auckland's level of hazard may be significantly higher than the public and policymakers believe.

The Ring of Fire is a geological disaster zone and hotbed of tectonic and volcanic activity ,where roughly 90 per cent of the world's earthquakes occur.

It stretches along the Pacific Ocean coastlines,where the Pacific Plate griinds against other plates that form the Earth's crust.

The region is susceptible to disasters because it is home to a vast number of 'subduction zones', areas where tectonic plates overlap.

What we still don't know

While scientists have warned that the 'Big One' earthquake could strike in New Zealand, there are still many unanswered questions about the Mangatangi Fault and its potential impact on Auckland.

For example, what are the chances of the fault rupturing again in the near future?

And what would be the most effective way to mitigate the damage caused by such an earthquake?

These are just a few of the many questions that remain unanswered, and it is essential that we continue to monitor the situation and gather more information to ensure the safety of Auckland's residents.