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The Hikurangi Subduction Zone, located off the east coast of the North Island, is one of New Zealand’s most significant earthquake and tsunami threats, with scientists estimating a 1 in 4 chance of a magnitude 8+ earthquake occurring in the next 50 years. This earthquake could trigger massive tsunamis that may reach the East Coast in a matter of minutes. Recent evidence of undersea landslides off Hawke’s Bay suggests that this zone has been the source of large seismic events in the past, raising concerns about the potential for future mega-quakes.
In May 2023, scientists warned that a major Hikurangi tsunami could have catastrophic consequences, potentially killing more than 22,000 people and injuring nearly 26,000, even if three-quarters of the population could evacuate in time. The Hikurangi Fault is currently locked, storing energy that could be released in a powerful earthquake. This makes preparation essential for the communities at risk of both the earthquake and the resulting tsunamis.
Tairāwhiti Civil Defence and the East Coast Lab are playing a crucial role in educating the public and preparing for such an event. Through regular evacuation drills, public outreach programs, and educational workshops, these organizations are ensuring that local communities know what to do when disaster strikes. The East Coast Lab collaborates with scientists to conduct research on the fault and its potential risks, helping the community understand the science behind the fault and the importance of swift evacuation in the event of a tsunami.
In addition to these initiatives, 28 EPODs (Emergency Pods), soon to be 33, have been deployed in Wairoa as part of the region’s emergency response plan. These EPODs are stocked with essential supplies like food, water, medical tools, and communication systems, designed to support the community in the event of a major disaster. Should a tsunami occur following an earthquake, these EPODs would provide crucial resources to help whānau and communities stay self-sufficient during the critical first days of the emergency.
Recent research by scientists has shown that undersea landslides off Hawke’s Bay are linked to past seismic events on the Hikurangi Subduction Zone. These findings suggest that the fault has caused significant earthquakes before and may do so again in the future. The East Coast Lab continues to monitor these geological shifts and collaborate with emergency management teams to ensure communities are informed and prepared.
For more details on the Hikurangi Fault and recent scientific discoveries, check out this article on NZ Herald. To learn more about how to prepare for a tsunami, visit the East Coast Lab’s official website here.
You can also watch an informative video created by the East Coast Lab, which explains the risks posed by the Hikurangi Fault and how communities can prepare for a potential earthquake and tsunami.
Kia kaha – by staying informed and preparing with the right tools and knowledge, we can help ensure the safety of our whānau and communities when the Hikurangi Fault acts.
