Tsunami

Tsunami are long, high sea waves, usually caused by earthquake. They can be extremely hazardous, and cause widespread damage. Find out what steps to take.

Preparing for a tsunami

• Know where the nearest high ground is and how you will reach it.
• Plan to get as high up or as far inland as you can.

Refer to the Wellington tsunami evacuation zone map to determine if you are in an at-risk area.

When to evacuate

Move immediately to the nearest high ground or as far inland as you can, if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level, or
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea.

If there are evacuation maps available, follow the routes shown.