Volcanic Eruption

Auckland is a volcanic area. The chance of a volcano erupting is small (probably not in your lifetime). However, scientists agree that at some stage there will be another eruption. It is likely that there'll be a warning beforehand.

What should you do in an eruption?

• Follow instructions from Civil Defence and the University Emergency Management Response Group, especially in regard to evacuation. You can listen to Civil Defence messages on the radio. Learn more: Emergency information sources
• Stay indoors as volcanic ash is a health hazard, especially if you have respiratory difficulties such as asthma or bronchitis
• Close all windows and outside doors to limit the entry of volcanic ash; place damp towels at thresholds
• Monitor people with respiratory conditions
• Where appropriate, turn off any local air conditioning units that feed directly from outside
• Await further instructions
• Avoid driving in heavy ash fall, driving will stir up volcanic ash that can clog engines and stall vehicles Abrasion can damage moving parts, including bearings, brakes, and transmissions
• If you, or anyone else, have chronic bronchitis, emphysema or asthma, stay inside and avoid unnecessary exposure to the ash

If outside at the time of eruption:

• Seek shelter in a car or a building
• If caught in volcanic ash-falls, wear a dust mask or use a handkerchief
  or cloth over your nose and mouth

If you must go outside:

• Use protective equipment such as masks and goggles and keep as much of your skin covered as possible
• Wear glasses, not contact lenses, as these can cause corneal abrasions

Document Control
Version: 1.0
Last Updated: Oct 2025
Next Review: Oct 2028
Owner: hsw@auckland.ac.nz
Approver: Associate Director, Health Safety & Wellbeing