New Zealand’s first nationwide tsunami evacuation map has been launched today.
Minister for Emergency Management, Kieran McAnulty said the creation of the map was an important step in improving New Zealanders’ preparedness in the event of a tsunami.
“All of New Zealand’s coastline is at risk of tsunami which means most of us live, work, or play in areas under threat,” Minister McAnulty said.
“It’s important all Kiwis have a plan to keep their whānau safe if a tsunami happens. The new national tsunami evacuation map makes it easy for people to find out where to get to safety.”
The map allows users to enter their address to find out if they’re located in a tsunami evacuation zone and where to go to stay safe.
It includes 16 regional evacuation maps and local evacuation information.
“In an emergency every second counts so it’s crucial people have a plan in place before something happens. This map makes it easier for people to know where their closest safe ground is, and to have a plan to get there,” the Minister said.
“While individual areas of the country have tsunami maps, this is the first time we’ve had a single map for the whole country, and is the latest of a series of milestones to strengthen Aotearoa’s tsunami safety arrangements.
“This is just the latest step the Government has taken in strengthening New Zealand’s readiness for a natural disaster.”
The map has been developed by the National Emergency Management Agency in close partnership with the 16 regional Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups.
“You shouldn’t wait until an emergency to check whether you’re in a tsunami evacuation zone – there is no better time than now to make sure you’re prepared and your plan is up to date to keep you and your whānau safe,” Mr McAnulty said.
Check out the map here.
