Jane Nees BOP Regional Councillor www.janenees.co.nz

Tsunami warning systems are very topical at the moment. This isn't surprising because who can forget the graphic images of the massive wall of water that devastated the coast of Japan. Despite having the active Kermadec Trench off our coast, we have a relatively low risk of a tsunami of the scale experienced in Japan. But, if it happens, such an event would have a devastating impact and we would have very little time to react, as we saw in Japan, where many people were victims even with extensive warning systems in place.

There is a much greater risk of a tsunami coming from much further away and fortunately this means it is likely that the scale of the tsunami would be much less. However, because of our extensive coastal development, tsunami warning systems are a critical piece of infrastructure for us.

Those responsible for making decisions on what warning systems to put in place need the best advice on what systems are available, how efficient and reliable they are, what geographic coverage and market penetration they will give, the response time they will provide and their affordability. While the decision may seem complex, in reality it is quite simple – choose a suite of complementary systems based on the best advice available, share the appropriately cost between the local authorities and get the thing in place. Let's not waste time agonising over options, because ultimately, it's not the warning system that will be important – it will be what we do when the warning sounds that will be the most telling factor in how successful our response to a tsunami is.

Councils need to reconsider their development plans in the light of a possible tsunami event. For example, there are too many transport bottlenecks in Mount Maunganui and Papamoa which will restrict people's ability to get to high ground quickly. Thought needs to be given to what can be done to facilitate a mass exodus should it be required. For example, more roads running perpendicular to the coast and alternatives to everyone trying to leave via their own private vehicle resulting in traffic gridlock. Secondly, councils should develop evacuation plans now for various areas and publicise them widely – including designated safe areas, routes to follow to get there, designated places for people to gather as interim evacuation points and mass transport options to get them out.

Secondly, communities need to take charge in planning their own response. Individually, it will be up to each one of us, but we should work with others to cover a range of contingencies. Schools, daycare centres, retirement homes, neighbourhood watch groups, churches – to name a few – should all have plans on what to do and who to help. A bit of forethought will make a huge difference should a tsunami come our way.

If you have any views on this or any other issue, please phone 07 579-5150 email [email protected] or visit www.janenees.co.nz