News NZ

New Zealand's Earthquake Prep and Surprising Beach Safety Saga!

From earthquake readiness to beach mishaps, Kiwis are bracing for the wildest ride this summer!

In the land of the long white cloud, New Zealand is gearing up for the inevitable – catastrophic earthquakes. With eyes on the giant Hikurangi Subduction Zone, the National Emergency Management Agency is on high alert. This is not merely about knowing where the snacks are stashed in case of an emergency; it’s a serious commitment to ensure that communities are prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws their way. After all, a little planning today means fewer head-scratches tomorrow!

But wait, it’s not all doom and gloom! Just as New Zealanders are prepping for those seismic shakes, beachgoers in the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel are encountering their own splashy dilemmas. Lifeguards have had their hands full dealing with the aftermath of offshore breezes, dislocated shoulders, and what they fondly refer to as “silliness” among swimmers. With warning bells ringing louder than a New Year’s Eve countdown, safety during this sun-kissed season remains paramount.

On the racing turf, New Zealand's horse racing scene has kicked off the year with a bang! The Skycity Eclipse Stakes brought everyone to the edge of their seats as Too Sweet (NZ) stormed across the finish line, blazing a trail that has left thousands cheering. Meanwhile, Jockey Matt Cartwright proved his mettle by winning not one, not two, but three feature races—including the high-stakes Queen Elizabeth Cup. It seems whether it’s on land or sea, Kiwis aren’t short on excitement this summer!

And if you think the excitement ends there, hold your horses (pun intended)! Surf Life Saving NZ reported a staggering 16 rescues on New Year's Day alone, as they kicked off the month known for perilous tides with a bang. According to General Manager Andy Kent, while a beach day is the ultimate relaxation goal, a healthy respect for water is the key to keeping it a joyful experience. So, keep your swimsuits on, your eyes peeled, and maybe put that jellyfish aside—you don’t want the waves to cramp your style!