Media Release
Wednesday 21st January, 2009
For Immediate Release

Wellingtonians should reflect today on their experiences during the power cut that crippled much of the central business district and affected some outlying suburbs, says Jarrod Coburn, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Resilience Trust.

The loss of this essential service caused inconvenience and some distress, but thankfully nobody was hurt as a result.

However, it was incredible to see the lack of preparedness and thoughtlessness exhibited by many Wellingtonians. So it is time we asked ourselves - as residents of a region that sits on stressed fault lines - some important things:

1) How do you rescue someone who is trapped in a lift?

2) What happens to ATM machines and EFTPOS when the power fails?

3) Do you carry a mini torch or penlight on your person or in your handbag?

4) Have you always got credit on your pre-pay cellphone?

5) How do petrol stations pump gas when the power goes off?

This morning's power cut was an inconvenience at worst. It was a lovely, warm, sunny morning. Cafe's still had cold drinks and muffins to sell. The water was still working in many buildings.

But what if this had happened at 4PM in the middle of winter, in the middle of a howling southerly storm? And what if the power stayed off for several hours? How would you get home? What would happen to the kids at school?

Now add a massive earthquake to the mix and everyone can start to imagine how important it is to get prepared now, rather than wait until the power goes out!

The New Zealand Resilience Trust promotes resilience amongst communities. This includes communities of people working in high-rise buildings and large enterprises. For further information on resilient communities visit www.nzrt.org.nz.

ENDS

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