Free ShakeOut events in October to help Palmy prepare for emergencies

Published on 01 October 2026

hake Month graphic with cracked lettering above earthquake debris and dust.

Earthquakes, floods, storms and other emergencies can strike at any time, but being prepared can make all the difference.

That's the message behind a series of free events being hosted by Palmerston North City Council this October to help residents understand local hazards, prepare emergency plans and build confidence in responding when disaster strikes.

So, how prepared is your whānau? Come to one of our free public talks and take part in the nationwide ShakeOut drill:

Tuesday 6 October, 7pm: Palmy's local hazards, Central Library
Wednesday 21 October, 1.30pm: Nationwide ShakeOut drill
Wednesday 21 October, 7pm: NEMA presentation on catastrophic events, Conference and Function Centre
Thursday 29 October, 7pm: The Next Big One by scientist Kate Boersen, Conference and Function Centre

View Shake Month event details

Emergency Management Manager Jason McDowell says whether you're creating your first emergency plan or looking to strengthen your existing knowledge, these opportunities will give you practical information and expert advice to help you be ready.

"While we can't predict when the next emergency will happen, we can take steps today to be ready for it. These free events are an opportunity to build confidence, increase knowledge and make sure you're better equipped to respond when it matters most."

The programme begins on 6 October with a free public talk about the natural hazards Palmerston North faces and what they could mean for your home and family. Don't wait for the woah! Natural hazards and your home will be held at the Central Library at 7pm, with experts from the Natural Hazards Commission and our Emergency Management team. It's a chance to learn more about the risks in our region, ask questions and better understand what an emergency could mean for our city. There will also be games and fun activities for the kids.

Preparedness isn't just about knowing the risks – the national ShakeOut drill is about practising what to do in an earthquake. On 21 October at 1.30pm, schools, businesses, organisations and households are encouraged to take part in New Zealand's nationwide ShakeOut earthquake drill.

By registering and participating, you'll have the chance to practise the lifesaving "Drop, Cover and Hold" action and make sure everyone in your workplace, school or home knows how to respond during an earthquake.

Later that evening, at 7pm, the Conference and Function Centre will host a public talk on catastrophic events, presented by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). This session will provide valuable insights into major emergencies and disasters, helping attendees understand the challenges communities can face and the importance of preparing before a crisis occurs.

To round out the month, The Next Big One: In this together is a talk by Kate Boersen from Illuminate Science and will be held at the Conference and Function Centre at 7pm on 29 October. Her engaging presentation will explore what to expect in a large earthquake or tsunami, and plan how to look after each other.

All events are free to attend.