Source: National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)
When a tsunami could be on the way, warnings need to reach as many people as possible. A new initiative from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and MetService will ensure more New Zealanders are informed the moment a warning is issued.
MetService.com will now display an automated tsunami warning banner whenever NEMA issues a tsunami warning or advisory.
“Tsunami warnings only work if people see them and act on them, and we’re pleased to be working with MetService to keep people safe,” says John Price, Director Civil Defence Emergency Management at NEMA.
“This will bring together NEMA and MetService’s large audiences, so New Zealanders are more likely to get the information they need, when they need it.”
This isn’t the first time NEMA and MetService have teamed up to help keep New Zealanders safe. In October 2025 the agencies partnered with digital out-of-home providers to automatically display MetService Orange and Red Severe Weather Warnings on billboards in affected areas.
“MetService’s purpose is to make weather intelligence easily accessible so New Zealanders can make informed decisions and stay safe,” said Kathryn Blackmore, Sales Manager at MetService.
“Working with NEMA allows us to support public safety in a way that goes beyond weather services.”
NEMA is now exploring how automated tsunami messaging could be shared on other government websites, helping ensure more people see these crucial warnings as soon as they take effect.
To learn more about what to do when a tsunami warning is issued, visit getready.govt.nz/emergency/tsunami
