A nationwide test is being held to test the Emergency Mobile Alert system on Sunday 24 November between 6pm and 7pm.

Emergency Mobile Alerts are messages about emergencies sent by authorised emergency agencies to capable mobile phones. You can find out if your mobile phone is capable of receiving the messages by checking the list on our website https://getready.govt.nz/capable-phones. Your phone may not be capable even if it is on the list if it has not been set up to receive cell broadcast (eg some parallel imported phones). Find out more about EMA at www.getready.govt.nz/ema

Alerts are targeted to people in affected areas, sent by cell broadcast to capable phones. Because emergency mobile alert is sent by cell-broadcast, there is no option to opt out of receiving the test or alerts. Emergency Mobile Alert is one way of receiving information about emergencies, it will never be used in isolation. A form will be available on the Civil Defence website for people to provide feedback on the test. 

It's important to know the different ways you can stay informed during an emergency.

• Radio: If the power goes out, a solar or battery powered radio (or your car radio) can help you keep up to date with the latest news. In an emergency, tune to these stations: Radio New Zealand, The Hits, NewstalkZB, MoreFM
• Online - For local updates, check your council’s website, as well as your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group website and social media. National updates will be available on the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management's website and @civildefence Twitter channel.
• Neighbours – Get to know your neighbours so you can help each other while civil defence and emergency services are busy helping people who need them most. Get involved in your community and get to know your neighbours before an emergency happens.