Whakatāne District Council is encouraging residents, schools, workplaces and community groups to get ready to “Get Out of the Blue” this ShakeOut.

As part of New Zealand’s national earthquake drill and tsunami hīkoi on Wednesday 21 October at 1.30pm, thousands of people across Aotearoa will pause to practise what to do in an emergency.

Emergency Management Officer John Eruera said ShakeOut was an opportunity for people to build simple habits that could save lives during an earthquake or tsunami.

“ShakeOut is a quick, practical reminder of what to do. Take 60 seconds to Drop, Cover and Hold, and then, if you’re in a tsunami evacuation zone, practise your evacuation hīkoi too.”

Eruera said for the Whakatāne district, this year’s focus was helping people get familiar with the new tsunami evacuation maps released earlier this year.

“New tsunami evacuation maps show areas that may need to be evacuated during a tsunami threat.

"If you live, work, learn or spend time in a blue zone, we want you to know how to get out of it quickly and safely.

“With new tsunami evacuation signage now in place across the rohe, ShakeOut is a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the maps, practise your evacuation route and know how to get out of the blue.”

Everyone is encouraged to take part in ShakeOut wherever they are on the day and to practise their earthquake and tsunami readiness with colleagues, classmates, friends and whānau.

“Knowing your zone and having a plan can make all the difference in an emergency.

“If you’re in the blue zone, take a few minutes this ShakeOut to think about how you would get to safety and how long it might take.”

Residents can learn more about ShakeOut at getready.govt.nz and check whether they are in a tsunami evacuation zone by visiting the council website, whakatane.govt.nz/services/emergency-management-whakatane-district, and clicking on the Tsunami Map link for their area.