Sunday 25 November 2018 (between 6.00pm-7.00pm)

Nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system 

A nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system is happening on Sunday 25 November between 6.00pm and 7.00pm. The test is done by the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) as a nationwide test.

Last year MCDEM received thousands of feedback submissions from people which helped to evaluate and improve the Emergency Mobile Alert system.

This nationwide test will help to make sure the Emergency Mobile Alert system is working well. The test alert is sent to cell towers all over New Zealand, and is expected to reach approximately three million phones that are capable of receiving the alert.

So it doesn’t matter which network you are on. Any capable mobile phone in the target area during the broadcast period should receive the alert.

An Emergency Mobile Alerts are not meant to replace other emergency alerts, or the need to take action after natural warnings. It is important to remember that Emergency Mobile Alerts are just one of many ways of getting information during an emergency including radio, social media, TV etc.

You still need to be prepared for an emergency, and you should not wait to get an alert before you act. If you feel your life is in danger, don’t wait for an official warning. Take immediate action.

You can follow the links below to learn more about Emergency Mobile Alerts and to check if your mobile phone can receive the test alert.

How to receive Emergency Mobile Alerts

Emergency Mobile Alert capable phones

Emergency Mobile Alerts - FAQs