Count on your squad: Communities urged to unite for Aotearoa's biggest earthquake drill

Hundreds of thousands of people across Aotearoa New Zealand are locking in their plans for this Wednesday's national earthquake drill.

Emergency leaders urge Pacific households, churches, and community groups to get behind the response like a team.

Over 615,000 New Zealanders have already signed up for ShakeOut 2026. The annual event kicks off nationwide at 1.30pm on Wednesday 21 October.

Alf Filipaina, Chair of Auckland Council's Emergency Management Committee, says the annual exercise is a crucial checkpoint for Pasifika families to check their readiness.

“As always, ShakeOut is also a good reminder to think about your preparedness for an emergency, including having a household emergency plan, and talking to family and friends about what to do in an emergency and how to stay informed."

He emphasises that every individual and family needs an approach tailored to their own situation.

With earthquakes striking without warning across Aotearoa, regular practice ensures lifesaving actions like Drop, Cover, and Hold become automatic. Photo/Supplied

“That's why it is important that each of us practises the version of 'Drop, Cover and Hold' that works best for our situation,” Filipaina says. “For example, if you use a wheelchair, you can Lock, Cover and Hold; or if you have mobility impairment, you can Sit, Cover, and Hold. What matters most is knowing what works for you and practising it.”

John Price, National Emergency Management Agency Te Rākau Whakamarumaru (NEMA) Deputy Chief Executive, says preparing for a disaster is just like preparing for a big match.

"ShakeOut is an opportunity for New Zealanders to practise together. Just as athletes build confidence and capability through practice, we need to rehearse the right actions until they become instinctive," Price says.

NEMA Deputy Chief Executive John Price stresses that preparing for natural hazards as a community squad gives households the best chance of staying safe. Photo/RNZ/Nate McKinnon

With natural hazards giving communities virtually no early warning, Price notes that muscle memory is the key to staying uninjured when the shaking starts.

"We would never expect sportspeople to respond well in a high-pressure situation without any preparation. Natural hazards give us little warning, so ShakeOut helps us practise our response and make the safest actions automatic," he says.

"In this challenge, winning means surviving, reducing injuries and saving lives. Everyone has a role to play, and training as a squad gives our communities the best chance of staying safe."

Price says joining in at 1.30pm on Wednesday is simple, direct, and saves lives.

"Sign up and take part. When every second counts, knowing what to do at any time of day or night can help protect you, your whānau and your community," he says.

"Here’s what I want everyone to do. At 1.30pm on Wednesday, Drop, Cover and Hold. That means drop to your hands and knees where you are, protect your head and wait until it stops.

"If you cannot Drop, Cover and Hold, use the version that works for you. If you use a cane or walking equipment, Sit, Cover and Hold. If you use a wheelchair, Lock, Cover and Hold."

For Pacific communities where caring for elders and young children goes hand in hand with family life, he says practising these actions together ensures no one gets left behind in an emergency.

"Everyone can take part in preparing for an emergency - and Wednesday at 1.30pm is your chance to be a part of the squad."

Families can register and grab free resources at GetReady.govt.nz/shakeout to run their own household or workplace drill this Wednesday.