Science to emergency management response: Kaikōura earthquakes 2016.

Abstract

The magnitude 7.8 Kaikōura Earthquake in 2016 presented a number of challenges to science agencies and institutions throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. The earthquake was complex. 21 faults ruptured throughout North Canterbury and Marlborough. This generated a localised seven metre tsunami and triggered thousands of landslides. With many areas isolated, science teams had logistical challenges, including the need to coordinate efforts across institutional and disciplinary boundaries. Many research disciplines, from engineering and geophysics to social science, were heavily involved in the response. Coordinating these disciplines and institutions required significant effort to assist New Zealand during its most complex earthquake yet recorded. This paper explores that effort and acknowledges the successes and lessons learned by the teams involved.