ShakeOut 2018
At 09:30am on 18 October 2018, New Zealand will be taking part in ShakeOut, an international earthquake drill and tsunami hikoi (walk). It's important that you, your family and friends know what to do in the event of an earthquake or tsunami so this is the perfect opportunity to prepare. If you practice these drills twice a year you have a significantly lower chance of being injured in one of these events. So what do you need to do?
How to ShakeOut
- Sign up at shakeout.govt.nz/signup (takes two minutes).
- Follow the steps at bopcivildefence.govt.nz/get-ready. This includes making an emergency plan, packing a getaway kit and knowing what to do with your pets.
- Conduct the earthquake drill. If you are in a coastal area take a walk to familiarise yourself with your evacuation route in the event of a tsunami.
How to conduct an earthquake drill
Drop to your hands and knees to ensure you don’t fall.
Cover your head and neck. If possible take shelter under a sturdy table or desk. Do not move more than three steps.
Hold onto your head and neck (or protection) until the shaking stops.
How to conduct a tsunami hikoi
Find your evacuation route at bopcivildefence.govt.nz or find your local tsunami map. These maps can also be obtained from your local council.
It is important to know the natural warning signs. If an earthquake is Long or Strong - Get Gone. If you notice unusual sea water levels or noises coming from the ocean - Get Gone.
Worst Xmas ever?
There's a a lot of planning that goes into Christmas day and sometimes things just don't go to plan. But it can be a good thing - a family mishap or hilarious memory that you can laugh about in Christmases to come.
Whether you burnt the dinner or were stranded at an airport...
Share your Christmas mishaps below!
Suellen’s sweet Christmas tradition
The festive season is always a great excuse to indulge your sweet tooth, and this time of year poses the perfect opportunity to bring a real showstopper to the Christmas table.
For Suellen’s family, that showstopper is Croquembouche, an impressive tower of cream puffs bound together with spun sugar that is popular at weddings in France and Italy.
What began as a birthday treat at a local French café has become a cherished Christmas tradition for Suellen and her 17-year-old twin granddaughters, Ellie and Sadie. Every year, the trio gather in Suellen’s apartment at William Sanders Village to cook this festive dessert - a holiday highlight they all treasure.
Click read more for the recipe.