๐Ÿ“ž

Emergency Contact Numbers

The nationwide emergency number in New Zealand is 111, which connects to police, fire, and ambulance services.

Sections

Emergency Contact Numbers in New Zealand

1. Main Emergency Number: 111

  • Purpose: The number 111 is the primary emergency contact number in New Zealand for immediate assistance from Police, Fire and Emergency, Ambulance, or other critical services.
  • When to Call: Dial 111 in situations where there is a threat to life, property, or safety, such as:
    • Medical emergencies (e.g., heart attack, severe injury, or unconsciousness)
    • Fires
    • Crimes in progress or life-threatening situations
    • Serious accidents (e.g., car crashes with injuries)
    • Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods)

2. Non-Emergency Numbers

  • Police Non-Emergency Line: 105

    • Purpose: For non-urgent matters such as reporting theft, property damage, or lost items.
    • Availability: 24/7.
    • Website: You can also report non-urgent incidents online at 105.police.govt.nz.

  • Healthline: 0800 611 116

    • Purpose: For non-urgent medical advice or guidance.
    • Availability: 24/7, free to call.
    • Staffed by: Registered nurses who can provide advice and recommend whether you need to see a doctor or visit a hospital.

  • Poison Control (National Poisons Centre): 0800 764 766 (0800 POISON)

    • Purpose: For advice on poisoning, chemical exposure, or overdoses.
    • Availability: 24/7.

  • Civil Defence Information: Check local Civil Defence websites or social media for updates during natural disasters. There is no single emergency number for Civil Defence, but alerts are broadcast via radio, TV, and mobile notifications.

  • Animal Emergency Services: Contact your local veterinarian or SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) for animal-related emergencies.

National Regulations

  1. Accessibility:

    • The 111 emergency number is free to call from any phone, including mobile phones, landlines, and payphones.
    • You can call 111 even if you have no credit on your mobile phone or if your phone is locked.

  2. Language Support:

    • Interpreters are available for non-English speakers. When you call 111, inform the operator of your preferred language, and they will connect you to an interpreter.

  3. Hearing or Speech Impairments:

    • Use the 111 TXT service if you are deaf, hearing-impaired, or speech-impaired. You must register for this service in advance at www.police.govt.nz/111-txt.

  4. False Calls:

    • It is illegal to make prank or false calls to emergency services. This can result in fines or legal action.

General Costs

  • Emergency Calls: Free of charge.
  • Ambulance Services:
    • In most cases, calling an ambulance incurs a cost unless you are covered by insurance or are eligible for free services (e.g., under ACC for accident-related injuries).
    • Standard Ambulance Fee: Approximately NZD $98 for New Zealand residents. For non-residents, the cost may be higher (around NZD $800 or more).
    • ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation): Covers ambulance costs for injuries caused by accidents, regardless of residency status.

Standard Procedures for Contacting Emergency Services

  1. Dial 111:

    • From any phone, dial 111.
    • Wait for the operator to answer and ask, "What service do you need?"
    • Respond with "Police," "Fire," "Ambulance," or "Other."

  2. Provide Key Information:

    • Your location: Be as specific as possible (e.g., street address, landmarks, or GPS coordinates if in a remote area).
    • The nature of the emergency: Clearly explain what is happening.
    • Your phone number: In case the call gets disconnected, the operator can call you back.

  3. Follow Instructions:

    • Stay calm and listen carefully to the operator's instructions.
    • Do not hang up until the operator tells you to.

  4. Stay Safe:

    • If it is unsafe to remain in your current location (e.g., during a fire or earthquake), move to a safe area before calling.

Country-Specific Considerations

  1. Natural Disasters:

    • New Zealand is prone to earthquakes, volcanic activity, and extreme weather events. Familiarize yourself with Civil Defence protocols and emergency preparedness tips.
    • Download the Emergency Mobile Alert app or ensure your phone is set to receive alerts from the New Zealand government.

  2. Remote Areas:

    • Mobile coverage can be limited in rural or remote areas. Consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone if you plan to hike or travel in isolated regions.

  3. Tourists and Visitors:

    • Visitors can access emergency services just like residents. However, ensure you have travel insurance to cover potential ambulance or medical costs.
    • Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your country's embassy or consulate in New Zealand.

  4. Cultural Sensitivity:

    • Emergency responders in New Zealand are trained to respect cultural diversity, including Mฤori customs and traditions. If you have specific cultural needs, inform the responders.

Quick Reference Table

| Service | Number | Purpose | |----------------------------|------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | 111 | Life-threatening emergencies. | | Police Non-Emergency | 105 | Reporting non-urgent crimes or incidents. | | Healthline | 0800 611 116 | Non-urgent medical advice. | | Poison Control | 0800 764 766 | Advice on poisoning or chemical exposure. | | Civil Defence | N/A | Follow local updates during natural disasters. | | Animal Emergencies | Local SPCA/Vet | Assistance for injured or distressed animals. |

By understanding these emergency contact numbers and procedures, you can ensure your safety and the safety of others while in New Zealand. Always remember to stay calm and provide clear information when contacting emergency services.