Ōpōtiki locals are invited to come together for a community kōrero about what a large earthquake and tsunami could look like and how we can prepare together.
Aotearoa sits on one of the most active plate boundaries in the world, which means we live with the risk of earthquakes and tsunami every day.
Our history shows that large earthquakes and tsunami have occurred in the past, caused by movement on both our plate boundary and from offshore faults closer to home.
Scientists agree that it’s not a matter of if, but when. And it's possible such an event may happen within our lifetime.
"When you understand what the science is telling us and know what to expect, you feel more confident facing these big events, especially when you start putting a plan together", says Kate Boersen, science speaker.
A long or strong earthquake could cause intense shaking across Ōpōtiki, triggering landslides in steep areas, liquefaction in low-lying land, and serious damage to roads, bridges, buildings and critical infrastructure like powerlines and water pipes.
A tsunami may also follow and arrive before any official warning is issued.
This kōrero is a chance to hear the latest science, but also to talk together as a community about what we can do now before the shake to be ready and look after each other.
There will also be time to ask questions, share ideas, and talk together about evacuation routes, natural warning signs, and practical steps that everyone can take.
Ōpōtiki Mayor, David Moore, says strong community connections are key to getting through.
"We’ll need to rely on each other, whānau looking after whānau, neighbours checking on neighbours. This talk offers an opportunity to come together, learn a bit more, and make a plan that works for our people and our places. Everyone is welcome and I encourage as many people as possible to come along and make sure we are prepared,” Mayor Moore said.
This event is proudly hosted by Emergency Management Bay of Plenty & Ōpōtiki District Council with funding from the Natural Hazards Commission.
Event Details:
It Starts Before the Shake: Ōpōtiki
Tuesday 27 May | 6pm
Memorial Park Pavilion, 20 Albert Street, Ōpōtiki
