New Zealand ShakeOut is our national earthquake drill and tsunami hīkoi.
Taking part is a great way for your family, and the people you care about, to learn the right actions to take before, during and after an earthquake and tsunami.
Leading up to ShakeOut, here are some things you can do to get ready for an emergency.
If you, or a member of your household, has a disability or any special requirements that may affect your/their ability to Drop, Cover or Hold or practise a tsunami hīkoi, we have information to help you get ready.
Find out moreShakeOut is a self-run drill. You can start it in whatever way works for you. Use a bell, whistle or alarm, play the New Zealand ShakeOut Announcement over your PA system, shout “EARTHQUAKE DRILL” or tune in to our livestream.
Drop, Cover and Hold for 30–60 seconds:
While you are doing the drill, take note of what might be happening around you in a real earthquake. Think about what you might need to do to prepare for a real earthquake.
After your drill is complete:
Sign up to take part in New Zealand ShakeOut 2020 and you're in to win one of five personal emergency grab bags.
Sign upIt’s important that everyone knows what to do for ShakeOut. You never know where you will be or who’s going to be around in an emergency.
Download and share this factsheet in English on what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
drop-cover-earthquake-happens-fact-en-dec16.pdf | 2 MB |
Download and share this factsheet in Te Reo Māori on what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
drop-cover-earthquake-happens-fact-mi-jan17.pdf | 117 KB |
Download this factsheet that explains why Drop, Cover and Hold is the right action to take.
drop-cover-right-action-fact-en-apr15.pdf | 141 KB |
Download and share this helpful factsheet in English about what to do before, during and after a tsunami.
long-strong-earthquake-fact-en-dec16.pdf | 1.9 MB |
Download and share this helpful factsheet in English and Te Reo Māori about what to do before, during and after a tsunami.
long-strong-earthquake-fact-mi-jan17.pdf | 104 KB |
Drop, Cover and Hold is the right action to take in an earthquake. It stops you being knocked over, makes you a smaller target for falling and flying objects and protects your head, neck and vital organs. Watch this short video to find out more about Drop Cover and Hold.
For a local source tsunami, which could arrive in minutes, there won’t be time for an official warning. It is important to recognise the natural warning signs and act quickly. Remember, Long or Strong, Get Gone.
Drop, Cover and Hold is the right action to take in an earthquake. It stops you being knocked over, makes you a smaller target for falling and flying objects and protects your head, neck and vital organs. Videos produced by the Southern California Earthquake Center.