Ētahi atu Mōrearea Other Hazards
Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland faces other hazards that can affect communities and infrastructure. These include environmental risks and problems with technology. Being aware of these hazards and their warning signs can help you be prepared.
Below is a summary of these hazards, their warning signs, and where to find more information.
Landslides
Landslides happen when heavy rain, earthquakes, or if buried pipelines sustain damage all these conditions can cause slopes to become unstable. This causes soil and rocks to move downhill. Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland ’s hilly areas are more at risk during or after severe weather.
- Warning signs: Cracking in the ground, tilting trees or poles, and water seeping in unexpected places.
- Agencies involved: Auckland Council, GNS Science.
- More info: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/recovery-extreme-weather-disasters/get-ready-disaster/Pages/reduce-risk-landslides.aspx
This factsheet summaries what to do if you suspect a landslide or if a landslide occurs.
Drought
Drought happens when there is a prolonged period without rain fall. This can lead to water shortages and affect farming and water supplies. Climate change will change the drought risk in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland.
- Warning signs: Extended dry periods, water restrictions, and reduced water levels in lakes and reservoirs.
- Agencies involved: MPI, Auckland Council, Watercare.
- More info: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/funding-rural-support/adverse-events/dealing-with-drought-conditions/
Wildfire
Wildfires spread fast in dry weather and can cause damage to homes, farms, and natural areas. While urban Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland is at low risk, rural and forested areas are more vulnerable, especially in dry, windy weather.
If you see smoke or fire and believe there is a risk to people or property, call 111 and ask for 'Fire’.
- Warning signs: Dry weather, smoke, or small fires in rural or forested areas, and hot, windy conditions.
- Agencies involved: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Learn about fire preparedness and prevention guidance for your home and workplace.
Hazardous Substances
Hazardous substances include chemicals and gases that can harm people and the environment. These incidents can happen during transportation, storage, or industrial use.
- Warning signs: Chemical spills, strong odours and unusual gases.
- Agencies involved: Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Auckland Council, WorkSafe NZ, Te Whatu Ora.
- More info: https://getready.govt.nz/emergency/other-hazards#e1158
Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat to public safety and aims to cause fear and disruption. Although New Zealand has a low risk, it’s important to be alert and report any suspicious activity to the Police.
- Warning signs: Unattended bags or packages, unusual behaviour, or conversations suggesting potential violence. If you notice something suspicious, contact the Police by calling 111 immediately.
- Agencies involved: New Zealand Police, New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS)
- More info: https://www.police.govt.nz/advice-services/personal-community-safety/terrorism
Space Weather
‘Space weather’ is a collective term used to describe a range of phenomena originating from the Sun. Space weather occurs continuously, much like weather on Earth, and normally with no tangible effects. However, space weather in its more extreme forms may damage or disrupt New Zealand’s complex interconnected system of critical infrastructure.
- Warning signs: Sudden disruptions in GPS signals, satellite communication, or power surges. Space weather forecasts and alerts can give early warnings.
- Agencies involved: National Emergency Management Agency, GNS Science
- More info:
- Space Weather - GNS Science
- National Space Weather Response Plan: The National Space Weather Response Plan supports preparedness and response to a space weather event. It has key roles and responsibilities agencies that support a space weather response.