On Sunday 24 November between 6pm and 7pm, you may receive a test emergency notification alert through to your mobile phone. There’s no need to panic, this is a nationwide test as part of the government’s Get Ready campaign to check that your mobile device can receive the alert in the event of a real emergency. You don’t need to do anything upon receiving the alert.

What is the Emergency Mobile Alert system?
Emergency Mobile Alerts are messages about emergencies sent by authorised emergency agencies to capable mobile phones.

Why am I receiving this alert?
The alerts are designed to keep you safe and are broadcast to all capable phones from targeted cell towers. They can be targeted to areas affected by serious hazards and will only be sent when there is a serious threat to life, health or property, and, in some cases, for test purposes.

As these are sent by cell broadcast, there is no option to opt out of receiving these alerts. They are for your safety and play an important role in emergency procedures in New Zealand.

If your phone is from overseas or parallel-imported, it may work in New Zealand, however your experience may differ from those sold in New Zealand. Check to see if your phone is capable of receiving alerts>

When am I likely to receive this alert?
The next scheduled, annual test is for Sunday 24 November between 6pm and 7pm. Unless it is specified as a test, the only other time you will receive one will be in the event of a real emergency.

Why are these alerts being tested? 
Since the system was launched in November 2017, a test has been held annually to ensure the Emergency Mobile Alert system works well. The test allows for the system and cell towers to be evaluated as well as your phone’s ability to receive the alert.

What to do next…
There’s nothing you need to do after receiving the alert. There will be a form available for your feedback on the test via the Ministry of Civil Defence website.

Other emergency communication channels to be aware of
In a real emergency, these alerts will never be used in isolation, there will be other places for you to find information.

• UC has emergency procedures in place to ensure we are all prepared to respond quickly and appropriately in an emergency situation, read more>
• Radio – If the power goes out, a solar or battery powered radio (or your car radio) can help you keep up to date with the latest news. In an emergency, tune to these stations: Radio New Zealand, The Hits, NewstalkZB, MoreFM.
• Online – For local updates, check your council’s website, as well as your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group website and social media. National updates will be available on the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management’s website and @civildefence Twitter channel.

For more information, visit the Get Ready website>