Ngā Wā Whakangahau Calendar of Events

It Starts Before the Shake - Wellington

Date: Sunday 25 May 2025

Time: 11:00am

Location: Te Papa | Rongomātāne Theatre, 55 Cable Street, Wellington

 

What science tells us about the next big earthquake and tsunami 

Aotearoa New Zealand sits on one of the most active plate boundaries in the world, which means we live with the risk of earthquakes and tsunamis every day. The good news is, there’s a lot we can do to plan and prepare. 

This event is designed to help you feel more confident, connected, and informed, before the shake. The session will include a short talk, providing easy tips for preparing your home, family and workplace, followed by time for an open discussion. 

 

Speakers:

Kate Clark | Earthquake geologist | GNS Science

Kate is an earthquake geologist who’s spent more than 15 years studying past earthquakes and tsunami, and how the land around us changes over time. Her work has taken her to locations all along the East Coast, helping uncover the timing of past large earthquakes written in the landscape.

Kate Boersen | Science specialist | Illuminate Science

Kate has spent the past decade helping communities, researchers, and emergency managers connect the dots between science and real life. With a background in emergency management and natural hazards, she’s passionate about making sure people have the knowledge they need to make good decisions.

Graham Leonard | Principal Scientist | GNS Science

Graham has over 20 years of experience helping New Zealanders understand and prepare for natural hazards. His work brings together cutting-edge science, emergency planning, and real-world advice to help keep communities safe. He knows how important it is to turn scientific knowledge into clear, practical steps people can take.

 
This event is proudly hosted by the Wellington Region Emergency Management Office & supported by GNS Science with funding from the Toka Tū Ake | Natural Hazards Commission.