What does a National State of Emergency mean?

 Updated 12:18pm 14th February

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This morning the New Zealand Government declared a National State of Emergency in response to Cyclone Gabrielle.  

A National State of Emergency puts the Government in charge of any actions, as opposed to local authorities. This also allows the Government to help affected regions that are becoming overwhelmed. A National State of Emergency lasts for seven days, just like a local state of emergency. It can be extended as needed. 

If the region you live in is unaffected by Cyclone Gabrielle, it means you can continue daily life as usual. Do stay updated and follow the latest advice from your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group external URL and from MetService. external URL  

Your local Civil Defence group will provide updates on Civil Defence Centres in your region. Civil Defence Centres provide a local point where communities can seek help or offer help, depending on their circumstances.  

For assistance or information, including finding your local Civil Defence Centre, Deaf and disabled people and whānau can contact the Disability Helpline by texting 8988 or calling 0800 11 12 13.  

You can also access this helpline using the NZ Relay Service for assistance. The helpline is available 24 hours 7 days a week.  It is run by Whakarongorau Aotearoa / New Zealand Telehealth Services.

If you are in danger, please call emergency services on 111. To text the 111 line, you need to be registered via the Police website. 

For more information visit our webpage Cyclone Gabrielle. Where to go for help.

You can also contact Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People on 
Email: contact@whaikaha.govt.nz  
Phone: 0800 566 601 (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm) 
Text: 4206 

Please stay safe and look after yourself.