The Queenstown Lakes District is prone to Earthquakes - what can you expect?

The Alpine Fault line runs nearby and there is a history of land instability in the area.  Many earthquakes are not felt because they are either very small or are very deep in the earth.  But a large, damaging earthquake could occur at anytime – follow these simple steps to be prepared:

Before an earthquake
•  Plan!  Prepare a household emergency plan and emergency survival kit so that you can cope on your own for three days or more.
•  Identify safe places in your home, school or workplace.  For example, somewhere close to you, under a strong table, next to an interior wall.
•  Check your household insurance policy is up to date.
•  Get advice to make sure your house is secured to its foundations and that any renovations comply with the NZ Building Code. 
•  Secure heavy or precious items to the floor or wall. 

During an earthquake
•  Inside a building?  Move no more than a few steps, drop, cover and hold.
•  Outside? Move no more than a few steps, drop, cover and hold.
•  Driving?  Always pull over and stop.
•  At the beach or near the coast?  Drop, cover and hold.  Then move to higher ground immediately in case a Tsunami follows the earthquake.

 After an earthquake
•  Expect aftershocks – they will happen.
•  Help – assist those around you if you can.
•  If you’re inside a damaged building – try to get outside if you can – find a safe open place.
•  Do not go sightseeing! 
•  Can you smell gas?  Turn off the gas main outside the building – but only if it is safe to do so.
•  Can you see sparks or broken wires?  Turn off the electricity at the main fuse box – but only if it is safe to do so.
•  Is your property damaged? Take notes and photographs for insurance purposes.
•  Listen to the radio or use this website for information an advice.

External Links and Resources:
>> Drop, cover and hold still the best advice - Earthquake safety fact sheet (pdf 274kb)
>> New Zealand Earthquake Commission  (external link in new window)