Emergency Mobile Alert nationwide test

The next nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system is happening on Sunday 28 May 2023, between 6-7pm. The nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system is a necessary part of making sure the system works well.

Learn about Emergency Mobile Alert nationwide test
A map of New Zealand with rounded lines pulsing from it. Next to is a calendar in the shape of a phone with May 28. Below the text reads Emergency Mobile Alert nationwide test. One sound you can't ignore. Stop what you're doing and read the message.

Emergency Mobile Alerts are messages about emergencies. They are sent by authorised emergency agencies to capable mobile phones. The alerts keep people safe and are broadcast to all capable phones from targeted cell towers.

The alerts are targeted to areas affected by serious hazards. They will only be sent when there is a serious threat to life, health or property, and, in some cases, for test purposes.

To get Emergency Mobile Alerts, you just need a phone capable of receiving them. The phone also needs to have cell reception and up-to-date software. You don’t have to download an app or subscribe to a service.

  1. Check if your phone is on the list of capable phones.
  2. Update your phone’s operating system software.

Please refer to your phone manual or contact your mobile operator if you need help updating your phone.

As Emergency Mobile Alert is about keeping you safe, you won’t be able to opt out of receiving Emergency Mobile Alerts.

We do not target specific phones, instead we broadcast to a targeted area that is at risk. For this reason, we are unable to exclude your specific phone.

Your phone may show optional settings used in other countries, but in New Zealand we use a special broadcast channel that is permanently on.

You can give us feedback about Emergency Mobile Alert through our feedback form. Information collected in this survey helps us make ongoing improvements to system.

Emergency Mobile Alert Feedback

Give us feedback about Emergency Mobile Alert. Information collected in this survey helps us make ongoing improvements to system.

Give feedback on Emergency Mobile Alert
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More information and resources

External link
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Give us feedback about Emergency Mobile Alert. Information collected in this survey is used to make ongoing improvements to the alerting platform.

Internal link
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We’ve compiled helpful answers to frequently asked questions about Emergency Mobile Alert.

Document
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Read the Director's Statement for Emergency Mobile Alert Device Standards. It defines the desired mobile device standards for emergency alerting in New Zealand.

Factsheet
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Download this factsheet in English explaining the Emergency Mobile Alert system.

Factsheet
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Download this factsheet in Te Reo Māori explaining the Emergency Mobile Alert system.

Get ready

There are simple steps you can take to make sure you and your whānau are ready to get through.