Nelson

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Emergency Contacts

A guide to critical phone numbers and resources for emergencies or urgent situations in Nelson.

Sections

Emergency Services in Nelson, New Zealand

New Zealand has a well-organized and efficient emergency response system. In Nelson, as in the rest of the country, emergency services include Police, Fire, and Ambulance/Medical Services. Below are the details for each category:

1. Universal Emergency Number: 111

  • Number to Dial: 111
  • Services Covered: Police, Fire, Ambulance, and Search & Rescue.
  • Availability: 24/7, free of charge.
  • Languages: Operators can access interpreters for non-English speakers.
  • Procedure:
    1. Dial 111 from any phone (landline, mobile, or payphone).
    2. State the service you need: Police, Fire, or Ambulance.
    3. Provide your location and a brief description of the emergency.
    4. Follow the operatorโ€™s instructions.

Important Note: If you are unsure which service you need, explain the situation, and the operator will guide you.

2. Police Services

  • Emergency Contact: 111 (for immediate threats or crimes in progress).
  • Non-Emergency Contact: 105 (for non-urgent matters such as reporting theft, property damage, or lost items).
  • Local Police Station in Nelson:
    • Address: 41 Halifax Street, Nelson 7010.
    • Phone: +64 3 546 3840 (for general inquiries, not emergencies).
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM โ€“ 4:00 PM.

Costs: Police services are free for emergencies and non-emergencies.

Local Advice:

  • Nelson is generally a safe city, but petty crimes like theft can occur. Always lock your car and secure valuables.
  • If you witness suspicious activity, report it to the police via 105 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

3. Fire and Rescue Services

  • Emergency Contact: 111 (for fires, hazardous material incidents, or rescue situations).
  • Non-Emergency Contact: +64 3 546 2100 (Nelson Fire Station).
  • Local Fire Station in Nelson:
    • Address: 60 Gloucester Street, Nelson 7010.
    • Phone: +64 3 546 2100.

Costs: Fire services are free for emergencies. However, false alarms or non-emergency callouts may incur charges, especially for businesses.

Local Advice:

  • Nelson has a dry climate, especially in summer, which increases the risk of wildfires. Follow fire bans and restrictions during high-risk periods.
  • Install smoke alarms in your accommodation and ensure they are functional.

4. Medical and Ambulance Services

  • Emergency Contact: 111 (for life-threatening medical emergencies).
  • Non-Emergency Medical Assistance:
    • Healthline: 0800 611 116 (free 24/7 advice from registered nurses).
    • Nelson Hospital Emergency Department:
      • Address: 98 Waimea Road, Nelson South, Nelson 7010.
      • Phone: +64 3 546 1800.
      • Hours: Open 24/7 for emergencies.
    • Urgent Care Clinics:
      • Nelson Medical and Injury Centre:
        • Address: 98 Waimea Road (next to Nelson Hospital).
        • Phone: +64 3 546 8881.
        • Hours: 8:00 AM โ€“ 10:00 PM daily.

Costs:

  • Ambulance services are not free in New Zealand. The cost for an emergency ambulance callout is approximately NZD $98 for New Zealand residents and NZD $800+ for non-residents. Travel insurance is highly recommended for visitors.
  • Hospital emergency care is free for New Zealand residents and citizens. Visitors may be charged unless covered by travel insurance or a reciprocal healthcare agreement.

Local Advice:

  • Pharmacies in Nelson are well-stocked and can provide over-the-counter medications. Some pharmacies also offer after-hours services.
  • If you have a non-urgent medical issue, consider visiting a general practitioner (GP) or urgent care clinic to avoid high hospital fees.

5. Additional Emergency Resources

  • Civil Defence and Emergency Management:

    • Website: www.nelsontasmancivildefence.co.nz
    • Phone: +64 3 543 7290.
    • Purpose: Provides information and support during natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or tsunamis.
    • Local Advice: Nelson is in an earthquake-prone region. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures (e.g., Drop, Cover, and Hold) and tsunami evacuation routes if staying near the coast.

  • Poison Control Centre:

    • Phone: 0800 764 766 (24/7).
    • Purpose: Provides advice on poisoning incidents, including accidental ingestion of harmful substances.

  • Mental Health Crisis Helpline:

    • Phone: 0800 611 116 (via Healthline).
    • Purpose: Offers support for mental health emergencies or crises.

  • Roadside Assistance:

    • AA (Automobile Association): 0800 500 222 (for vehicle breakdowns or accidents).
    • Cost: Free for AA members; fees apply for non-members.

6. General Safety Tips for Nelson

  • Natural Hazards: Nelson is prone to earthquakes and occasional flooding. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow Civil Defence alerts.
  • Road Safety: Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Be cautious on winding rural roads and watch for cyclists.
  • Outdoor Safety: If hiking or exploring the Abel Tasman National Park nearby, inform someone of your plans and carry adequate supplies. Mobile coverage may be limited in remote areas.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Keep a small emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first aid kit, especially if staying long-term.

Summary of Key Emergency Numbers

| Service | Number | Cost | |---------------------------|------------------|---------------------| | Universal Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | 111 | Free | | Non-Emergency Police | 105 | Free | | Healthline (Medical Advice) | 0800 611 116 | Free | | Ambulance (Non-Residents) | 111 | NZD $800+ | | Civil Defence | +64 3 543 7290 | Free | | Poison Control | 0800 764 766 | Free | | Roadside Assistance (AA) | 0800 500 222 | Fees may apply |

By keeping these details handy, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle emergencies during your time in Nelson. If you have further questions or need additional guidance, feel free to ask!