An award-winning community science talk about the Alpine Fault is coming to Ōamaru next Tuesday (May 16).

AF8 (Alpine Fault magnitude 8) is bringing the award-winning AF8 Roadshow to Oamaru, in collaboration with leading earthquake scientists and Emergency Management Otago. 

It aims to share the Alpine Fault hazard science with our communities to improve understanding of the hazard risk and enable conversations on how to be better prepared.

Toka Tū Ake EQC chief resilience and research officer Dr Jo Horrocks said recent weather events have shown how important it is we be prepared for different natural hazards.

“Cyclone Gabrielle and other recent storms have shown how much our lives can be turned upside down by natural hazards. 

“A significant event on the Alpine Fault has the potential to impact the entire South Island and beyond, so it’s so important that we’re well-informed and doing all we can to build our resilience now.”

Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher said the more opportunities our communities have to learn about the hazards and the potential impacts, the more we can plan and prepare for disruption. 

“The Alpine Fault will rupture again at some stage, and it will likely cause a very significant level of damage and create a huge impact on the people of the South Island. 

“We’re pleased to be hosting the AF8 team in Ōamaru and encourage members of the public to attend this talk to join the conversation on how to be better prepared.”

AF8 science-lead associate professor Caroline Orchiston said when earthquakes will occur can’t be predicted, but scientific research has shown the Alpine Fault has a history of generating regular, large earthquakes.

“The next major Alpine Fault event is likely to occur within our lifetime, and we must take steps now to prepare.”