More than 100 insurance claims were recorded as caused by an earthquake that hit the northern Waikato region on Jan. 4.

The magnitude 5.1 earthquake had its epicentre 5km south of Te Aroha, was 7km deep, and was felt by more than 20,000 people, Radio NZ reported.

According to Toka Tū Ake EQC, it received at least 103 claims, the majority of which came from the Matamata-Piako District, Tauranga and Hamilton areas.

EQC said that all claims thus far were related to earthquake damage to residential homes, and none were for land damage. To make a claim, policyholders only need to contact their private insurer.

“Under the new Natural Disaster Response Agreement, all claims for natural disaster damage are managed by the private insurers, who also look after the EQCover part of a claim.” EQC said.

EQC also issued some safety tips for households when an earthquake strikes. It advised homeowners to take down any brick chimneys and make sure to properly secure large and heavy items such as bookcases or televisions.

“It also pays to have a survival kit to get you through the first few days or weeks after a major earthquake, in case you lose basic services or are unable to get supplies,” EQC said.