New Tairāwhiti Website Combines Weather and Emergency Information
The Tairāwhiti Emergency Management Office (Tēmo) launched a new website this week to provide residents with a centralized source for weather warnings, river level updates, and emergency information.
Website Features and Purpose
- The site includes a low-data mode designed for severe emergencies when network access may be limited.
- The website emerged in response to frequent severe weather events in the region, with development starting around the time of Cyclone Gabrielle.
- The goal is to ensure people have quick access to crucial information during emergencies.
Feedback and Development
Ben Green, the group manager, said the website was “soft-launched” without heavy promotion but has already received very positive feedback. The site will continue to expand with additional features over time.
“Like a lot of things that come out of Gabrielle, it ... sort of presented the solutions or opportunities to really enhance the current system.”
Complementing Existing Channels
Green highlighted the success of the Tairāwhiti Civil Defence Facebook page, which has grown to 25,000 subscribers. Following Cyclone Gabrielle, the page gained 10,000 new subscribers within 24 hours.
“Not everyone’s a Facebook user. Some prefer websites, so we’re trying to create a connected environment or ecosystem for information.”
The new website aims to complement social media channels by providing an alternative platform tailored to user preferences.
Author's Summary
The new Tairāwhiti Emergency Management website unifies critical weather and emergency updates, enhancing accessibility and complementing social media outreach for better regional preparedness.