10. CHRIS AUCHINVOLE (National) to the Minister of Civil Defence: What progress is the Government making on preparing New Zealanders for earthquakes?

Hon CHRIS TREMAIN (Minister of Civil Defence) : Earthquake preparedness has increased in the wake of the Christchurch earthquakes, but there is still a lot of work to do. On 26 September 2012 we will hold New Zealand’s largest ever earthquake drill, exercise ShakeOut. The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management aims to have 1 million New Zealanders taking part to raise awareness so that more people prepare themselves for an earthquake. Yesterday we reached a milestone of 100,000 registrations. This is a good start, and I encourage further schools, businesses, Government departments, and individuals to get on board.

Chris Auchinvole: What actions are being taken to encourage even more people to sign up for exercise ShakeOut?

Hon CHRIS TREMAIN: The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management is writing to all Government departments, and New Zealand’s 100 largest employers, seeking their involvement, along with schools and other organisations. There will also be an advertising campaign that highlights the need for preparedness and encourages people to sign up to ShakeOut at www.getthru.govt.nz. I will be writing to all members of Parliament to ask for their support in this valuable exercise by encouraging their communities to get involved with “Operation ShakeOut”. Thank you.