Source: Northland Regional Council
Northland’s six-monthly outdoor tsunami siren test will take place at 10 am on Sunday, 28 September, coinciding with the start of daylight saving.
The recently upgraded network of more than 90 outdoor sirens is tested twice a year to ensure it remains ready to alert communities in the event of a tsunami.
While it’s hoped such an emergency never occurs, regular testing helps ensure the system can respond effectively if needed and raises awareness of Northland’s tsunami risk.
During the test, sirens will sound for around two minutes, emitting the familiar siren tone followed by a voice message: “Test only, test only. This is a test of the Northland tsunami siren network; no action is required.”
While the indoor siren network will not be activated during this test, residents with indoor sirens are encouraged to manually check their devices by pressing the test button, similar to testing a smoke alarm.
The old model sirens will not be tested and are scheduled for progressive removal following this test, provided no significant issues are identified.
Northland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group spokesperson Zach Woods says community feedback remains a vital part of the testing process.
“We received valuable feedback during the April test which helped us fine-tune this upcoming one. We’ve made adjustments to ensure the sirens have time to complete their full test cycle and properly receive the activation signal.”
Technicians have inspected and resolved issues with sirens identified during the previous test, and the extended test duration will help confirm that all systems are functioning as expected.
Residents can provide feedback on the day via forms available on the Northland Regional Council website and the Civil Defence Northland Facebook page.
“Could you hear it? Was the message clear? Let us know.”
Woods also reminds Northlanders of the importance of recognising natural tsunami warning signs, especially in coastal areas where local-source tsunamis may arrive before any official alert.
“If you feel a strong earthquake that’s hard to stand in, one that lasts longer than a minute, or notice unusual sea behaviour, such as a sudden rise or fall or strange noises, don’t wait for an official warning, move inland or to higher ground immediately.”
Northland’s outdoor tsunami sirens are funded and owned by the region’s four councils (Far North District, Whangarei District, Kaipara District, and Northland Regional Council).
