The Te Aroha earthquake of 9 January 
1972 (N.Z.S.T.) was of only moderate magnitude (5.1) . It occurred at a shallow depth within a few kilometres of Te Aroha, where an intensity of MM VII was reached. Damage was mainly confined to domestic chimneys and contents of buildings in the Te Aroha region, but the felt area extended as far as Auckland, Mangakino and Whakatane. Numerous after shocks occurred in the following month.