A Virtual Reality Step Towards Emergency Preparedness

Imagine stepping into a virtual world where you can safely experience the effects of a tsunami, earthquake, or flood. Tauranga City Council’s innovative virtual reality (VR) experience offers an engaging and educational tool to help communities prepare for natural hazards.

This VR simulation allows participants to visualise the impacts of major natural events in a safe and controlled environment. By immersing users in realistic scenarios, the project helps demystify the risks, reinforce life-saving behaviours, and encourage proactive emergency planning. From understanding evacuation routes during a tsunami to recognising the signs of an impending flood, this interactive tool enhances preparedness while reducing fear and uncertainty.

The VR experience will be available for the public to try at the Emergency Management gazebo at several locations throughout January 2025:

• 7 January: Pilot Bay

• 10 January: Mount Maunganui main beach

• 16 January: Pilot Bay

• 18 January: Mount Maunganui main beach

• 23 January: Pilot Bay

• 24 January: Mount Maunganui main beach

• 30 January: Mount Maunganui main beach

This innovative project demonstrates the potential of combining cutting-edge technology with community education to strengthen resilience against natural hazards. Read more about this initiative on Emergency Management Tauranga’s website.

Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in this virtual world and empower yourself with knowledge and preparedness for the future.