The Northland tsunami siren network is being upgraded, with existing sirens being replaced by new models said to be more effective, resilient, and compliant with new safety standards. In a joint project, the four Northland councils are replacing the current sirens with 94 new ones, which are designed to provide greater sound coverage, pre-programmed voice warning messages and multi-tone siren sounds. They can also be activated via cell phone networks and satellite, and have back-up solar power systems.
Since they have greater sound coverage, fewer sirens will be required, in fewer and more effective locations. “As each siren is part of a network, sites are strategically chosen to ensure effective sound coverage and early warnings against tsunami, not only for that community, but for the entire region,” the Northland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group says. Sirens will be located at Mangawhai Museum, Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park, the Mangawhai Domain, Moirs Point Christian Centre on Estuary Drive, Langs Bay, Waipu Cove, Waipu Cemetery and Waipu Reserve.
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