A tsunami is a series of waves caused by large earthquakes. All of New Zealand’s coast line is at risk of tsunami. A tsunami wave can grow to become a fast moving wall of water.
Tsunami is a Japanese word meaning ‘harbour wave’. A tsunami is a series of fast travelling waves caused by a large disturbance in the sea or on the ocean floor. An earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption or meteorite can cause the disturbance. The waves can be as much as an hour apart. They can travel thousands of kilometres across the oceans at speeds of up to 800 kilometres per hour.
A tsunami may not be noticed as it crosses deep oceans, but it loses speed and gains height when it reaches shallow water. Large waves up to 15 metres or more in height can come crashing onto the land. The effects can be worse in narrow bays and inlets.
Tsunami waves can be rapidly-moving tides with very strong currents that can wash people and objects out to sea. They can also be large breaking waves that can cause major damage when they hit the shore.
Big earthquakes in or near New Zealand can cause tsunami. If you feel an earthquake that lasts longer than one minute, or one that is so strong it is hard to walk around or stand up, a tsunami could follow it. Sometimes when tsunami waves arrive on shore, it looks like the water sucks out before rushing back in. Or the waves can make unusual noises like a jet engine. But, these don’t always happen.
If you are at the coast and experience any of the following, move immediately to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can. Walk or bike if possible.
Remember Long or Strong, Get Gone.
Remember, Long or Strong, Get Gone.
Drop, Cover and Hold during the shaking. Protect yourself from the earthquake first.
As soon as the shaking stops, move immediately to the nearest high ground or as far inland as you can out of tsunami evacuation zones.Download Long or Strong, Get Gone Posters
Identify safe places close to your home and school by checking your local Civil Defence group’s tsunami evacuation zone maps.
Ask an adult to help you take a picture of a safe place that you can share with your neighbours, class, etc.
Make a plan with your family to get through an emergency. Think about the things you need every day and work out what you would do if you didn't have them.
Make your plan — print it out, stick it on the fridge and make sure everyone knows the plan.
Read a New Zealand perspective on tsunami on Te Ara, the Encyclopedia of New Zealand.
Watch these YouTube videos from GeoNet experts answering questions about natural hazards.
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