Tsunami evacuation zone maps
Over the past decade awareness of the potential threat tsunami pose to the Wellington region has greatly increased. Reports commissioned by the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) in 2005 calculated the risk to New Zealand from tsunami as similar to the risk from large earthquakes.
In recognition of this risk, Greater Wellington and GNS have worked together to develop maps which identify areas within the region which may be at risk from tsunami*. These maps will be used by local councils to develop localised evacuation plans. It is important to note that the zones are indicative only and simply identify the areas that each of the local councils wish to evacuate to protect residents for different size tsunami. These zones are ‘evacuation zones’ and are not ‘inundation zones’.
* For more information on the methodology used to develop the maps click here to download a copy of: Leonard, G. (compiler), 2009.Interim tsunami evacuation planning zone boundary mapping for the Wellington and horizons regions defined by a GIS-calcualted attenuation rule. GNS Science Report SR2008/30, Lower Hutt 18p.
Evacuation zones
There are three different zones shown on the maps; Red, Orange and Yellow.
Types of warnings
Natural Warnings
In the case of a large earthquake (one it is hard to stand up in), unusual noises from the ocean, or changes in the ocean (e.g. the ocean rushing in or out), or you feel a weak earthquake that lasts for a minute or more:
Evacuate ALL zones. Waves may arrive within minutes or take more than an hour to arrive. Wait for official all clear or advice from Civil Defence Emergency Management.
Official Warnings
Received from local Civil Defence Emergency Management. These warnings may come to you via New Zealand TV/radio broadcasts or the emergency services. You may receive warnings from one or several sources. Evacuate from the zone(s) stated in the warning message. Wait for official all clear or advice from Civil Defence Emergency Management.
Informal Warnings
Warnings from friends, other members of the public, international media, etc may be correct. If you feel the threat is imminent, quickly get to high ground. Consider evacuating from all zones.
Verify the warning only once evacuated or if you can do so quickly via radio, television, internet, or through your nearest Civil Defence Emergency Management Office.
Progress on maps
The table below identifies when the maps will be completed for each of the local councils**. For specific information on evacuation, please contact you local council.
| Wellington City Council | Complete |
| Masterton District Council | Complete |
| South Wairarapa District Council | Complete |
| Carterton District Council | Complete |
| Hutt City Council | Complete |
| Porirua City Council | February 2010 |
| Kapiti Coast District Council | Complete |
| Upper Hutt City Council | N/A |
**the maps are indicative only and may be altered by each of the local councils. Please contact your local council for more information.
Evacuation zone maps (in PDF format)