The intensities produced by the Korakonui earthquake were unusually great for a shock of magnitude 5.0. This appears to be a consequence
of an exceptionally shallow focus, but cannot be explained by geometrical factors alone. A lesser effect is related to foundation charactertistics. If the unexpectedly high intensities observed are typical of shocks in this part of New Zealand, re-assessment of existing anti-seismic precautions is advisable.