Own your zone

Tsunami don't have a season, but knowing the warning signs and the right action to take can help save lives. If you feel an earthquake that's Long or Strong, Get Gone. Evacuate out of all tsunami evacuation zones.

So wherever you are this summer, make sure you know your zone.

Find your tsunami evacuation zone

Work out what supplies you need at home

A house

If you're at home, you probably have most of the things you need already. You don’t have to have them all in one place, but you might have to find them in a hurry and/or in the dark.

  • Water for three days or more — make sure you have at least nine litres of water for every person. This will be enough for drinking and basic hygiene.
  • Long-lasting food that doesn’t need cooking (unless you have a camping stove or gas barbecue) and food for babies and pets.
  • Toilet paper and large plastic buckets for an emergency toilet.
  • Work gloves and a properly-fitted P2 or N95 mask.

If you have special dietary needs, make sure you have enough to last three days at home. 

Don't forget that you and your neighbours can help each other by sharing supplies too. 

Pack your grab bag

A clipboard that reads "Summer Checklist" with people playing in the ocean in the background

If you're going away this summer, make sure you have what you need. You might not be able to get home or you might be stranded in your car for some time.

Your car should have:

  • Walking shoes, warm clothes, raincoat and hat (for each person)
  • Water and snack food (remember babies and pets too)
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Portable phone charger
  • Cash
  • Copies of important documents and photo ID
  • Sunblock
  • RAT tests
  • Medications
  • First aid kit
  • Torch and batteries

Prepare for good weather... and bad

Summer can bring all kinds of weather. Make sure you're ready in case severe weather hits this holidays.

A smiling sun next to the words "MetService weather forecasts"

Keep an eye on the weather

MetService have up-to-date weather forecasts. Before you travel, make sure you check the forecast.

Check your weather forecast
A car driving towards some hills with the words "Waka Kotahi journey planner"

Keep up to date with traffic updates

Plan your journey with Waka Kotahi. See what traffic updates or delays are on your route.

Plan your journey
A house and a trampoline with the words "Prepare your property"

Prepare your property for severe weather

If you're heading away, make sure your property is prepared for severe weather. Tie down or remove anything outside that could become a damaging missile or break in strong winds.

An angry sun in a raincloud with the words "MetService weather warnings"

Be aware of Weather Warnings and Alerts

MetService provides land-based severe weather alerts. These are issued through a system of Outlooks, Watches and Warnings. Check what weather alerts are in place for where you are.

Check for weather alerts

Know how you'll stay informed

It's important to know the different ways you can stay informed during an emergency, no matter where you are. Do you know which radio frequency to tune into?

See how you can stay informed

Check it's alright before you light

Summer heat brings increased fire risk. Fire and Emergency New Zealand have a three-step tool to let you know whether it’s safe to light a fire, and if you’ll need a fire permit.

Check before you light a fire