RNZ : RNZ Emergency

RNZ is New Zealand’s statutory civil defence lifeline radio broadcaster. That means RNZ will provide vital information and updates as they come to hand on air and online during an emergency.

As part of its responsibility under its Charter to provide reliable, independent and freely accessible news and information, RNZ also has a role to play in helping New Zealanders be as ready as they can be for an emergency.

The guides below are designed to help get you and your whānau ready. They supplement official advice and delve into many of the common concerns or questions people have in times of emergency.

In the event of a civil defence emergency listen to your radio

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) advises that in times of crisis or civil defence emergency a battery powered radio, or a car radio remain essential lifelines if power is out and other forms of communication are unavailable.

Check our AM and FM frequencies.

Emergency guides

Getting to grips with weather warning systems is now an important part of your toolkit for keeping safe in an emergency. See the guide.	Understanding the thunderstorm warning system means you’ll be able to know how bad the incoming weather might be and take the right action for you and your whānau. See the guide.
Tips to get your device ready and use it effectively when disaster strikes. See the guide.	Misinformation and disinformation can spread rapidly in an emergency; here are some tips to know how to filter information. See the guide.
Tips for getting prepared for making insurance claims after an emergency. See the guide.	Practical advice and tips on storing, protecting and caring for your taonga and family heirlooms. See the guide.
Practical advice for renters and flatmates who want to be ready when the unexpected happens. See the guide.	In medium to large-scale events, traditional emergency responders can be overwhelmed. That’s where your community response becomes vital. See the guide.
Recent emergencies have shown how important it is to be prepared, particularly when it comes to your essential medications. See the guide.

Resources for an emergency

AM & FM Frequencies

In the event of a civil defence emergency listen to your radio.

Get Ready: A resource for getting you and your whānau prepared and ready for an emergency.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA): The Agency responsible for national emergency management planning and leading or supporting the response and recovery from emergencies.
Metservice: Warnings, watches and severe weather outlook.
Who to Contact: A list of local and regional councils who will provide civil defence information for your area.

Emergency Guides

Metservice weather explainer: Severe weather

MetService weather explainer: thunderstorms

Emergency phone usage tips

Mis and disinformation and how to spot it

Practical insurance advice

Protecting sentimental items

Getting your flat emergency ready

Your community is your best resource in an emergency

Managing your medication during an emergency

Emergency news coverage

Read the latest emergency news updates here.