Wellington

1. Categories of Emergency Services in Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington, like the rest of New Zealand, has a well-organized and efficient emergency services system. The main categories of emergency services are:

1. Police: For law enforcement, crime prevention, and public safety.
2. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ): For fire-related emergencies, rescue operations, and disaster response.
3. Ambulance Services: For medical emergencies and patient transport.
4. Civil Defence and Emergency Management: For large-scale disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and severe weather events.
5. Coastguard New Zealand: For maritime emergencies.

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2. How to Contact Emergency Services

In New Zealand, including Wellington, the universal emergency number is 111. This number connects you to all emergency services.

Key Points About Dialing 111:

• When to Call: Use 111 for situations where there is an immediate threat to life, property, or safety.
• How It Works: When you call 111, an operator will ask which service you need (Police, Fire, Ambulance, or another service). You will then be connected to the appropriate service.
• Languages: The 111 service supports multiple languages. If you do not speak English, tell the operator your language, and they will connect you to an interpreter.
• Accessibility: The 111 service is free to call from any phone, including mobile phones without credit or a SIM card.

Non-Emergency Contacts:

• Police Non-Emergency Line: Call 105 for non-urgent police matters, such as reporting a stolen item or property damage.
• Healthline: Call 0800 611 116 for non-urgent medical advice.
• Wellington City Council: Call 04 499 4444 for local issues like water leaks, road hazards, or animal control.

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3. Costs of Emergency Services

• Police and Fire Services: These are free of charge for all residents and visitors.
• Ambulance Services: St John Ambulance provides emergency medical transport in Wellington. While calling an ambulance is free, there is a cost for transport:
  • Residents: Approximately NZD $98 for emergency transport.
  • Visitors: Costs may vary, but travel insurance is highly recommended to cover these expenses.
  • If you cannot afford the fee, St John has a financial hardship policy.
• Civil Defence Services: Free of charge, as these are government-funded.

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4. Procedures to Follow in Various Emergency Scenarios

Here’s what to do in common emergency situations in Wellington:

a. Medical Emergency

1. Call 111 and ask for an ambulance.
2. Provide your location and a description of the medical issue.
3. Follow the operator’s instructions while waiting for help.
4. If the situation is less urgent, call Healthline (0800 611 116) for advice.

b. Fire Emergency

1. Call 111 and ask for the fire service.
2. Evacuate the building immediately and stay at a safe distance.
3. Do not attempt to re-enter the building until authorities declare it safe.

c. Crime or Public Safety Emergency

1. Call 111 and ask for the police.
2. Provide as much detail as possible about the situation, including descriptions of people or vehicles involved.
3. If it’s a non-urgent matter, call 105 or report it online at police.govt.nz.

d. Earthquake

1. During the shaking: Drop, Cover, and Hold.
2. After the shaking stops, check for injuries and damage.
3. Listen to local radio stations (e.g., RNZ National) or check the Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMO) website for updates.
4. Be prepared for aftershocks and follow Civil Defence instructions.

e. Tsunami Warning

1. If you feel a long or strong earthquake, move to higher ground immediately.
2. Follow evacuation routes marked in Wellington.
3. Stay tuned to Civil Defence alerts via radio, TV, or the Emergency Mobile Alert System.

f. Maritime Emergency

1. Call 111 and ask for the Coastguard.
2. If you are on a boat, use VHF Channel 16 to contact the Coastguard directly.

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5. Local Factors and Unique Considerations

Wellington has some unique geographical and cultural factors to consider when dealing with emergencies:

a. Earthquake Preparedness

• Wellington is located on a major fault line, making it prone to earthquakes. Residents and visitors should familiarize themselves with earthquake safety measures.
• Keep an emergency kit with food, water, and supplies for at least 7 days. Visit getprepared.nz for guidance.

b. Emergency Mobile Alerts

• New Zealand has an Emergency Mobile Alert System that sends notifications to mobile phones in the event of a serious emergency. Ensure your phone is capable of receiving these alerts.

c. Community Support

• Wellington has a strong sense of community, and neighbors often help each other during emergencies. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.

d. Weather-Related Risks

• Wellington is known for its windy weather. Be cautious during severe storms, and secure loose items outdoors to prevent damage.

e. Cultural Sensitivity

• New Zealand values inclusivity and respect for all cultures. Emergency services are trained to assist people from diverse backgrounds, so don’t hesitate to reach out regardless of your language or cultural needs.

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6. Key Contacts and Resources

Here’s a quick reference list of important emergency contacts in Wellington:

| Service | Contact Number | Notes | |----------------------------------|----------------------|--------------------------------------------| | Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | 111 | Free, 24/7 | | Police Non-Emergency Line | 105 | For non-urgent police matters | | Healthline | 0800 611 116 | Free medical advice | | Wellington City Council | 04 499 4444 | Local issues (e.g., water, roads) | | Civil Defence | getprepared.nz | Disaster preparedness and updates | | Coastguard New Zealand | 0508 472 269 | Maritime emergencies |

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7. Final Tips

• Save Key Numbers: Program emergency numbers into your phone for quick access.
• Stay Informed: Follow local news and weather updates, especially during severe weather or natural disasters.
• Travel Insurance: If you’re a visitor, ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies and evacuation costs.
• Be Prepared: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and emergency procedures specific to Wellington.

By understanding these systems and procedures, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any emergency situation in Wellington, New Zealand. Stay safe!