New Zealand's earthquake was so powerful the sea floor lifted TWO METRES and exploded through the sand - creating an alien landscape that has left marine experts baffled

Incredible photos have emerged showing the devastating impact of this week's earthquake on the New Zealand coastline after it was hit by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake around midnight on Sunday. Aerial photos (inset) detail the enormity of the damage caused just north of Kaikoura on New Zealand's south island. Scientists say the seabed lifted an estimated two metres on the foreshore and admit they have never seen anything like it. Social media users have taken to the internet to express their distress at the images and the impact it could have on sea life in the region.