TSUNAMI WARNING FOR EAST COAST OF NORTH ISLAND #1

As a result of the Canterbury earthquake and national aftershocks early this morning a tsunami warning has been put in place for marine and land areas on the East Coast of New Zealand.

A 2 metre wave has been confirmed in the South Island and a wave between 1 – 3 metres is expected on the North Island’s eastern coasts from anytime. As a result we Tararua District Council are evacuating Herbertville and Akito residents.

Horizons Regional Council Emergency Control Centre controller Craig Grant says, “we advise everybody on the East Coast to please stay away from the coastal areas and to stay inland until further notice as the first wave may not be the last. 

People are advised to:
1. Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, including boating activities)
2. Stay off beaches and shore areas
3. Move to high ground immediately if you are in a known tsunami hazard zone
4. Do not go sightseeing
5. Share this information with family, neighbours and friends
6. Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates
7. Follow instructions of local civil defence authorities
“This Tsunami warning will remain in effect until a cancellation message is issued by the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency management (MCDEM). MCDEM and scientific advisors are continuously monitoring the situation,” says Mr Grant.
“Our Region has also experience widespread and significant power outages. Further assessment will be available in daylight.”