An earthquake occurred in Christchurch on 14 February 2016 at 1:13 p.m. local time (00:13 UTC) and initially recorded as 5.9[4] on the Richter scale, but subsequently reviewed as 5.7.

The shipping containers that were still placed along Peacock's Gallop on Main Road stopped falling rocks from hitting passing cyclists.

[7] There was confusion at Northlands Shopping Centre as police encouraged some shopkeepers to evacuate, but the alarm was not sounded as is otherwise done when the mall is to be cleared.

[14] Psychologists argued that survivors of the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, especially those who lost their homes or friends, experience painful memories during aftershocks.

[16] Responding with an editorial, The Press called the situation "both disgraceful and distressing" and challenged the health minister, Jonathan Coleman, to come to Canterbury and see for himself.

[17] In early March, Coleman announced that officials were working on a package that would assign millions in additional funding to Canterbury for mental health.