Stay informed

If your life, health or property is in danger, Emergency Mobile Alerts can be sent to your mobile.

You don’t have to download an app or subscribe to a service. Just ensure your phone is capable and the operating system software is up to date. If your phone is on, capable and inside the targeted location, you should get the alerts.

Only authorised emergency agencies can send Emergency Mobile Alerts. Agencies will only send alerts when there is a serious threat to life, health or property. The only agencies currently authorised to issue alerts are:

• New Zealand Police
• Fire and Emergency New Zealand
• Ministry of Health
• Ministry for Primary Industries
• National Emergency Management Agency
• Local Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups.

The alert message will identify the agency sending the Emergency Mobile Alert.

Emergency Mobile Alert is an additional channel to help keep people safe if there is an emergency. It does not replace other emergency alerts. If you feel your life is in danger, don't wait for an official warning. Take immediate action.

Find out more about Emergency Mobile Alerts

In an emergency the radio may be your prime source of information. If the power goes out, a solar or battery powered radio (or your car radio) can help you keep up to date with the latest news.

For localised information during an emergency we recommend you tune into one of the local radio stations listed below for updates.

In addition, the following radio networks work collaboratively with civil defence emergency management authorities around New Zealand to broadcast important information and advice in an emergency:

• Radio New Zealand (AM and FM frequencies)
• MoreFM (FM frequencies)
• NewstalkZB (AM and FM frequencies)
• Today FM (AM and FM frequencies)
• The Hits (FM frequencies)

The Red Cross Hazard App is a free mobile app for Android or iOS, to help you identify hazards, reduce risks and stay informed when you need it most.

The Hazard app:

• Uses trustworthy information from the National Emergency Management Agency and your local CDEM groups.
• Is preloaded with information about hazards including floods, earthquakes, tsunami, fire, weather and biosecurity risks. This means you have instant access to all information, even without cell phone reception or an internet connection.
• Sends you alerts about earthquakes, tsunami, floods and other hazards in your area of New Zealand.
• Sends alerts if you have WiFi, even if you don't have mobile phone coverage.
• Allows you to monitor more than one location at once.

Download the Hazard App to help you and your family prepare for and respond to hazards in New Zealand. The app is a vital tool to help you get through emergencies and get disaster alerts.

Find out more about the Hazard App on the Red Cross website

If disaster strikes, important information and updates will be made available at www.southwaikato.govt.nz.

The Waikato Regional Council's Flood Room Live website is a good source of information during flood events.