no declared emergencies
In a landmark achievement for emergency preparedness, 22 Emergency Preparedness Pods (EPODs) have been successfully deployed across the South Island, Te Waipounamu. This initiative, a collaboration between Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, Te Puni Kōkiri, and EPOD, has strategically placed these vital resources at marae sites throughout the region.
The deployment comes amid growing concerns over the Alpine Fault, which has a 75% probability of rupturing within the next 50 years. Such an event could result in catastrophic damage, isolating communities and disrupting critical infrastructure. The placement of these EPODs ensures that marae—already central to their communities—are equipped to provide essential support during emergencies, from shelter to resource distribution.
“This is about ensuring our marae, as critical community hubs, are ready to support whānau in times of need,” said a spokesperson Jamie Ruwhiu of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.
Each EPOD is stocked with supplies designed to sustain communities during the critical first days of a disaster. These include emergency food and water, medical supplies, and communication tools, enabling marae to function as self-sufficient response centres until further assistance arrives.
The project’s rapid completion, achieved in just three months, highlights the dedication and collaboration between the partnering organisations. It is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in addressing large-scale challenges.
“This initiative is about more than just delivering equipment; it’s about empowering communities to face future emergencies with confidence and resilience,” – Harrison McPhail, EPOD
With these EPODs now in place, South Island communities are significantly better prepared to face the challenges posed by natural disasters. This milestone not only strengthens emergency response capabilities but also reinforces the role of marae as pillars of community resilience.
As the risk of major events like an Alpine Fault rupture looms, this deployment serves as a model for proactive disaster planning, ensuring that people and communities are supported when they need it most.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/350311101/hawkes-bay-emergency-pod-company-team-ngai-tahu-safeguard-whanau
The first EPOD has been delivered to the Ngā Hau e Whā Marae, marking the beginning of a comprehensive deployment plan. This initial delivery will be followed by the West Coast, Banks Peninsula, Kaikōura, and continuing down to Dunedin and Invercargill.
“Partnering with EPOD is essential for safeguarding our whānau. By combining our traditional knowledge with pre-positioned approaches, we can enhance our preparedness for natural disasters and protect our communities.” – Jamie Ruwhiu, programme manager of the whānau and emergency response team
This first delivery marks a significant advancement in our largest project to date and reinforces our commitment to strategic planning and community resilience. Ngāi Tahu’s careful identification of strategic sites, locations, and potential risk areas ensures our pods are placed where they are needed most.
See the below video of the first EPOD being deployed:
The deployment of these EPODs will provide critical support and resources, making a significant impact on the safety and wellbeing of many South Island communities.
Te Waipounamu South Island has an incredibly high risk of an Alpine Fault rupture, with a 75% probability of rupture in the next 50 years.
An event of this magnitude will lead to catastrophic outcomes and will see many communities isolated, and the ability of first responders and emergency services will be limited if infrastructure is damaged.
This partnership between EPOD and Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, with the support of Te Puni Kōkiri and the Rata Foundation, is a monumental step towards enhancing New Zealand’s resilience and ensuring that our communities and whānau are well-prepared for any future natural disaster.
“Marae have become local emergency response centres after a number of natural disasters, in some cases feeding a thousand people a day. The pods are a way to enhance our emergency response preparedness. We want to empower our people to offer support and manaaki to whānau and the community during emergency events. This is such important mahi as it highlights the importance of emergency preparedness in our Ngāi Tahu Takiwā” – Ben Bateman, CEO Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu
Ngai Tahu’s commitment to the wellbeing of their people and land aligns perfectly with our mission at EPOD. Together, we are championing a new way forward using innovative solutions to safeguard our communities and create a more resilient future.
Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to build a safer, stronger Te Waipounamu.
