In Solomons Islands there are reports of damage in the township of Gizo and the whereabouts of several people is unknown after this morning's earthquake.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre in Hawaii put the strength of the earthquake at 7.8 but Geosience Australia has upgraded the quake to 8.1.
The French High Commisson in New Caledonia has decided to evacuate people from the main island's east coast and the Loyalty Islands.
The warning said a wave was expected in the middle of the morning.
Civil Defence operation have been activated to follow developments after the major earthquake.
Scientists in New Caledonia say the tsunami risk is low.
