National Geohazards Monitoring Centre opens at GNS Science

The NGMC in event mode - image credit Holly Godfrey/GNS Science

12/12/18

The newly-opened National Geohazards Monitoring Centre will lead to a safer and more resilient New Zealand, according to its hosts, GNS Science.

The Centre was officially opened this morning by Hon Dr Megan Woods, Minister of Research, Science and Innovation, and Hon Kris Faafoi, Civil Defence Minister.

For the first time, New Zealand will have 24-7 “eyes on” monitoring of the four perils: earthquake, tsunami, landslides and volcanic activity.

“This is a really important development which will enhance our ability to provide timely, reliable information to decision makers,” GNS Science chief executive Ian Simpson says.

“When a serious event happens, every second counts.

“It’s not an exaggeration to say this new Centre could save lives, and I’m really thrilled to see it open today.”

The purpose-built facility is manned by rotating teams of geohazards analysts.

It has been designed to be resilient, with a back-up capability at GNS Science’s Wairakei site.

The Centre has been funded by MBIE through the Strategic Science Investment Fund and built with support and input from the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management, the Earthquake Commission and Land Information New Zealand.

“The Centre is the culmination of a year’s work – but more than that, it crystallises decades of work we have done with EQC and LINZ through GeoNet,” Mr Simpson says.

“I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved, and this new Centre shows just what can happen when government agencies work together.”

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