ShakeOut drill a chance for Aucklanders to prepare for a real life earthquake
ShakeOut, New Zealand’s national earthquake drill and tsunami hīkoi will take place on Thursday 24 October at 9.30am.
Councillor Sharon Stewart, chair of Auckland Council’s Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee says she encourages Aucklanders to embrace this opportunity to practice for a real earthquake.
“I urge all Aucklanders to join in with the rest of Aotearoa and take part in ShakeOut.
“Even though the risk of a major shake in the Auckland region is small, it pays to be familiar with what to do if you are caught up in a real earthquake or tsunami.
“ShakeOut day is also a great opportunity to for Aucklanders to think about their preparedness for a natural disaster – including having a household emergency plan.
“It’s also an opportunity to talk to family and friends about what to do in an emergency and how to stay informed.”
What you need to know about ShakeOut
==================================
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is encouraging all households, schools, and organisations to officially sign up for ShakeOut. When you sign up, you’ll have the option of going into a draw to win a prize.
================================================
ShakeOut will take place on Thursday 24 October at 9.30am
================================================
It is a self-run earthquake and tsunami drill. An Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA) will not be sent out
You can start the drill in whatever way works for you. All you need to do is Drop, Cover and Hold for 60 seconds and practice your evacuation if you are in a tsunami evacuation zone by walking to high ground or inland by foot or bike
There are resources you can use to encourage your friends, family and colleagues to practice earthquake and tsunami drills. Download posters, factsheets and more here.
All of New Zealand is at risk of earthquakes and tsunami. Practicing your tsunami hīkoi is an easy way for you and those around you to learn the right actions to take.
Before the ShakeOut drill
====================
Know your tsunami evacuation zone in Auckland. Make plans for a tsunami hīkoi if you are in a coastal area. See the national Tsunami Evacuation Map to find tsunami evacuation zones in other regions.
Remind yourself and others what to do in an earthquake or tsunami. Download and share Drop, Cover and Hold or Long or Strong: Get Gone posters.
Drop, Cover, Hold
==============
In an earthquake, Drop, Cover, Hold. It stops you being knocked over, makes you a smaller target for falling and flying objects, and protects your head, neck and vital organs.
DROP down on your hands and knees. This protects you from falling but lets you move if you need to.
COVER your head and neck (or your entire body if possible) under a sturdy table or desk (if it is within a few steps of you).
If there is no shelter nearby then cover your head and neck with your arms and hands.
HOLD on to your shelter (or your position to protect your head and neck) until the shaking stops. If the shaking shifts your shelter around, move with it.
If there is no shelter near you, crawl to an inside corner of the room and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.
Do not run outside or stand in a doorway. Many people are injured while trying to move during the shaking.
It is safer to Drop, Cover, and Hold until the shaking is over.
If you use a walker or a wheelchair
If you use a walker or wheelchair, Lock, Cover and Hold.
Lock your wheels and get as low as possible.
Bend over and cover your head and neck as best you can.
Then hold on until the shaking stops.
Long or Strong: Get Gone
Earthquakes can generate tsunami.
It is important to recognise the natural warning signs of a tsunami and remember, if an earthquake is Long or Strong: Get Gone.
=================================================
ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/news/2024/10/shakeout-drill-a-chance-for-aucklanders-to-prepare-for-a-real-life-earthquake
=================================================
Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
-
41.8% Yes
-
33.5% Maybe?
-
24.7% No
Tips and advice to stay street smart this summer
Summer is finally here!
Time for BBQs, holidays, Christmas, travelling and events galore.
We've put together a whole range of tips and advice so you can put your feet up and relax this summer, knowing that it's all good in your hood.
Our first piece of advice to make your neighbourhood safer this summer, is to get to know the people who live around you! People who know each other are more likely to offer, accept, and ask for help when needed.
Shop Safe - Preventing Fraud & Scams
You might find yourself making more purchases than usual at this time of year, and many of those might be online, so here's a set of tips and advice to make sure you stay safe and secure whilst doing your Christmas shopping this year. And remember to think about the security of your online shopping when it gets delivered!
Heading away this summer?
It's a busy time of year on new Zealand roads and everyone wants to get from A to B safely. It's also important that your home stays safe while you're away enjoying your 'home away from home'. We have put together a set of tips and advice to help make that happen!
Keeping your car, home and belongings safe
From recording valuable possessions to securing locks, keeping valuables hidden and informing trusted neighbours that you will be away, there are many things you can do to keep your car, home, and belongings safe. Here's a bunch of handy tips!
Party planning checklist and fire-wise tips
Whether it’s a small backyard gathering, or a big celebration for a special occasion, a little extra planning and consideration will go a long way in keeping you, your guests, and your neighbours happy. We also have some tips to make sure you and your families stay fire-wise during summer.
Get to know your neighbours - look out, reach out, help out
The most important action you can take to make your community safer is get to know the people who live around you. People who know each other are more likely to offer, accept, and ask for help when needed.
It is also important to know who to contact in an emergency and when to use the non-emergency contact for NZ Police. Learn more about Neighbourhood Support, get tips on getting to know your neighbours and the best way to contact the police below.
Strong communities start with small hellos
In terms of crime prevention, your neighbours are the best and cheapest security system you can have. You don't have to love your neighbour, but at least get their number just in case!
===================================
Have a happy, safe and connected summer!
===================================
Loading…
