Angry Kiwis are lashing out after a UK tabloid published apocalyptic warnings New Zealand was about to be consumed by a giant tsunami.
On Tuesday (NZ time), the Daily Mail published an alarmist article titled "Experts warn giant waves will CRUSH New Zealand after rumblings in Pacific Ocean".
They then illustrated the piece with a photo of Japan's 2011 tsunami, which claimed the lives of over 15,000 people - to make it look like a vast wave was about to engulf our cities.
"A mega-tsunami warning has been issued for New Zealand, with 12-metre waves," it said.
"Thousands of people could die."
The hysterical report sparked panic and an outpour of sympathy from around the world as people reacted to the alleged threat.
"Get the animals out now!!! Before it's too late for them!!" one terrified commenter wrote on Facebook.
"That's terrible. New Zealand is my favorite country!" said another.
"LORD PLEASE HOLD NEW ZEALAND IN THE PALM OF UR STRONG AND ALMIGHTY HANDS," one prayed.
But the revelation the video was just a computer simulation and not an actual tsunami led to a real wave - a wave of anger.
"Stop making up stories Daily Mail and causing unnecessary distress for those of us with family in NZ," one angry commenter wrote.
"How disrespectful to our quake ridden cities and towns along with using photos from Japan's life-taking tsunami years ago," another said on the story.
"I'm no journalist, but it's a complete lack of respect and disregard to those who experienced and lost lives through true events," one fumed.
The Daily Mail has been approached for comment.
Newshub.
