Earthquake

A number of active fault lines run underneath Taranaki. Scores of earthquakes are recorded each year, though few of them are significant enough to be felt by people.

This page has advice on what to do to prepare for and to cope with a significant earthquake, and background information on seismic activity in Taranaki.

Be ready for a significant earthquake

DO

  • Secure heavy furniture to the wall or floor.
  • Place heavy items near the floor.
  • Put strong catches on cupboards.
  • Check that your chimney is secure.
  • Secure your hot water cylinder.
  • Check your household insurance.

DON'T

  • Put chemical cleaner in the toilet cistern. This will poison a potential source of drinking water.

If there is a significant earthquake while you are indoors

  • Take cover under a table or brace yourself in a doorway.
  • If you are in a lift, stop it at the nearest floor and get out.
  • Do not look for your pets until shaking ceases.
  • Do not attempt to run outside.

If there is a significant earthquake while you are outdoors
In a high rise area

  • Take cover in a doorway.
  • Do not run into the street.

If you are driving

  • Slow down, pull over to the side of the road and stop.
  • Stay in the vehicle. It will provide some cover.
  • If inside a building lay down in the car.

After an earthquake

  • Check those around you and help them if necessary.
  • Make sure that someone reports the damage in your area to the nearest open Centre (it will take some time to open centres).
  • Put out small fires. Evacuate the building if the fires cannot be controlled.
  • Turn on your radio.
  • If your property is damaged, try to take notes or photos of damage for insurance purposes.
  • Do not go sightseeing.

 

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Understanding the hazard

We record around 200 earthquakes per year in Taranaki with only some of these being felt. Taranaki has a number of active fault lines particularly in the Inglewood, Waverley and Oaonui areas as well as off-shore.

Ruptures on the Inglewood fault have seen vertical movements of 1-2m whilst the Waverley fault can produce vertical movements of 3m+. The likelihood of these events is described in the hazard and risk analysis as 'possible'.

Information on the latest earthquakes can also be viewed on the GeoNet website (click on link in navigation panel at right) which draws on information from the Taranaki Volcano - Seismic Network and the national network of seismographs.

You can also submit a full report at the GeoNet site.

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