Overview

Disaster Awareness Week 2006

The Wellington Emergency Management Office (WEMO) aims to help Wellington prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies and disasters.

It operates under the requirements of the Civil Defence and Emergency Management Act 2002.

Wellington at Risk

Wellington is a city at risk of natural hazards such as storms, flooding, earthquakes and wild fires. It is also at risk of hazards caused by vehicles transporting and disposing of dangerous substances.

An emergency occurs when any of these hazards affects the city in a way that overwhelms the city's normal ability to cope.

Hazards - Greater Wellington Regional Council website

WEMO Facilities

The WEMO building has been purpose-built with its own water, electricity, communications and sewerage facilities to ensure communications and essential services can continue to operate in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Completed in April 1996 at the cost of $1.87 million, it's located on the corner of Murphy and Turnbull Streets in Thorndon.

Emergency Response

Capital Quake 2006 exercise

On a daily basis, WEMO works to manage emergency risks through planning, training and exercises.

In any event that requires the coordination of a range of emergency agencies, or a declared disaster under the Civil Defence Act, WEMO will be fully activated.

Under the leadership of the Controller, the office becomes a nerve centre where critical decisions can be made in consultation with emergency services and others involved in disaster response.

Capital Quake Exercise

WEMO was activated in November 2006 to respond to an exercise scenario based on a 7.6 richter scale earthquake.

The exercise involved participation from the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management, emergency services and Lifeline groups.

Publications

The Council produces a number of publications on emergency management, civil defence, and natural hazards in Wellington. They are particularly useful for schools, business and householders.

Council publications

Overview
Preparedness
Fire
Civil Defence Centres
Urban Search & Rescue
Schools Section
Links