Emergency Alerts

Emergency Mobile Alert

Emergency Mobile Alerts are messages about emergencies that are sent by authorised emergency agencies to capable mobile phones. The alerts keep people safe and are broadcast to all capable phones from targeted cell towers.

The alerts are targeted to areas affected by serious hazards. They will only be sent when there is a serious threat to life, health or property, and, in some cases, for test purposes.

You don’t have to download an app or subscribe to a service. Just ensure your phone is capable and the operating system software is up to date. If your phone is on, capable and inside the targeted location, you should get the alerts.

If you get an alert, read the message and take it seriously. It will tell you what the emergency is and what to do. It will also tell you which agency sent the message and, if needed, where to go for more information.

For more information about the Emergency Mobile Alert, or to check that your phone is capable of receiving these alerts, visit Getready.govt.nz/ema.

Nationwide test of Emergency Mobile Alert

The nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system is a necessary part of making sure the system works well. The nationwide test is sent to cell towers all over New Zealand. We expect most phones are capable of receiving the alert. 

In 2017, 2018 and 2019 we received thousands of feedback submissions from people. These helped us improve the Emergency Mobile Alert system. The most recent nationwide test was on the evening of 24 November 2019. In consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 and 2021 nationwide tests of the Emergency Mobile Alert system were cancelled. 

The next nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system is happening on Sunday 22 May 2022, between 6-7pm. Visit Getready.govt.nz for more information.

Red Cross Hazard App

The Red Cross Hazard App can help you prepare for and respond to hazards in New Zealand. The app is a useful tool to help you get through emergencies and also receive disaster alerts for your selected area (such as your home or workplace).

You can download The Red Cross Hazards App for free from your mobile app store and follow the instructions to customise your alerts. This will help keep you and your family informed of events that may affect you.

For more information about the Red Cross Hazards App, visit RedCross.org.nz.