Auckland

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Emergency Services

What to do and where to go in case of health-related emergencies in Auckland, including contact numbers.

Sections

1. Overview of Emergency Services in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealandโ€™s largest city, has a well-organized and efficient emergency services system. The country operates a centralized emergency number (111) for all major emergencies, including medical, fire, and police assistance. These services are available 24/7 and are designed to respond quickly to ensure public safety and well-being.

2. Emergency Phone Numbers

  • 111: The primary emergency number for all services (Police, Fire, Ambulance).
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116 (for non-urgent medical advice, free of charge).
  • Poison Control: 0800 764 766 (24/7 advice for poisoning incidents).
  • Civil Defence Emergency Management: 0800 22 22 00 (for natural disasters or large-scale emergencies).
  • Non-Emergency Police Assistance: 105 (for non-urgent police matters, such as reporting theft or property damage).

3. Medical Emergencies

How to Access Medical Emergency Services

  • Dial 111 and request an ambulance if someone is seriously injured, unconscious, or experiencing a life-threatening condition (e.g., heart attack, stroke, severe bleeding).
  • Ambulance services in Auckland are primarily provided by St John Ambulance.

Costs

  • Emergency ambulance services are not free for most residents and visitors. The cost is approximately NZD 98 for New Zealand residents and NZD 800+ for non-residents or tourists. However, if you have travel insurance or are covered under ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) for injury-related incidents, the cost may be subsidized or waived.
  • Public hospitals provide free emergency medical care for New Zealand citizens, residents, and those covered under reciprocal healthcare agreements. Visitors may need to pay for treatment unless covered by travel insurance.

Procedures to Follow

  1. Call 111 and provide clear details about the emergency, including the location and condition of the patient.
  2. Follow the operatorโ€™s instructions while waiting for the ambulance.
  3. If the situation is less urgent, visit the nearest Accident & Medical (A&M) Clinic or Urgent Care Centre. These clinics are open after hours and on weekends.

Local Considerations

  • Auckland has several public hospitals with emergency departments, including Auckland City Hospital, Middlemore Hospital, and North Shore Hospital.
  • Pharmacies are widely available for minor health concerns, and many offer after-hours services.

4. Fire Services

How to Access Fire Emergency Services

  • Dial 111 and request the fire service if there is a fire, gas leak, or other hazardous situation.

Costs

  • Fire services are free of charge for all emergencies.

Procedures to Follow

  1. Evacuate the area immediately if there is a fire or hazardous situation.
  2. Call 111 and provide the exact location and details of the incident.
  3. Do not attempt to extinguish large fires yourself unless it is safe to do so.

Local Considerations

  • Aucklandโ€™s fire services are managed by Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), which is well-equipped to handle urban and rural fire incidents.
  • Smoke alarms are mandatory in all residential properties. Ensure your accommodation has functioning smoke alarms.

5. Police Assistance

How to Access Police Services

  • Dial 111 for urgent police assistance (e.g., crimes in progress, immediate danger).
  • Dial 105 for non-urgent matters (e.g., reporting theft, lost property, or historical incidents).

Costs

  • Police services are free of charge.

Procedures to Follow

  1. Call 111 for emergencies and provide details about the situation, including the location and description of the incident.
  2. For non-urgent matters, you can also report incidents online via the NZ Police website or by calling 105.

Local Considerations

  • Auckland is generally a safe city, but petty crimes like theft can occur. Always secure your belongings and avoid leaving valuables in cars.
  • Police officers in New Zealand are approachable and helpful. Do not hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.

6. Natural Disasters and Civil Defence

Auckland is located in a region prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic activity, and severe weather events.

How to Access Civil Defence Services

  • Dial 111 for immediate assistance during a natural disaster.
  • Contact Civil Defence Emergency Management at 0800 22 22 00 for disaster preparedness and recovery information.

Local Considerations

  • Familiarize yourself with Aucklandโ€™s tsunami evacuation zones and earthquake safety procedures.
  • Download the NZ Civil Defence app for real-time alerts and updates.
  • Keep an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.

7. Other Emergency Services

Poison Control

  • Dial 0800 764 766 for 24/7 advice on poisoning incidents.
  • This service is free of charge.

Mental Health Crisis

  • Dial 1737 to speak with a trained counselor for free, 24/7.

Animal Emergencies

  • Contact the SPCA Auckland at 09 256 7300 for animal-related emergencies.
  • For injured wildlife, call the Department of Conservation at 0800 362 468.

8. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Save Emergency Numbers: Program all relevant emergency numbers into your phone for quick access.
  • Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and ambulance costs.
  • Language Assistance: Emergency operators in New Zealand can access translation services if you do not speak English fluently.
  • Stay Informed: Follow local news and weather updates, especially during severe weather or natural disaster warnings.
  • Know Your Location: Always be aware of your address or surroundings to provide accurate information during an emergency.

9. Summary Table of Key Emergency Numbers

| Service | Phone Number | Cost | |-----------------------------|--------------------|--------------| | General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | 111 | Free (ambulance may incur costs) | | Healthline (Non-Urgent Medical Advice) | 0800 611 116 | Free | | Poison Control | 0800 764 766 | Free | | Non-Urgent Police Assistance | 105 | Free | | Civil Defence Emergency Management | 0800 22 22 00 | Free | | Mental Health Crisis | 1737 | Free |

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle emergencies in Auckland, ensuring your safety and well-being during your time in the city.