The nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA) system is happening tonight (Sunday, 26 May) between 6-7pm.

The Get Ready website said the alert will be broadcast from cell towers to about 5 million phones across New Zealand.

If your phone is on, capable, and the software is up-to-date you should receive the alert.

EMA’s are messages about emergencies. They are sent by authorised emergency agencies to mobile phones.

The website said, EMA’s are to keep people safe. “They are broadcast to all capable phones from targeted cell towers to areas affected by serious hazards. You may not receive an alert if you are out of mobile coverage, mobile phone towers are damaged, or there is a power outage.”

“Our 2022 emergency preparedness survey showed that over 88% of people in New Zealand received the test or were with someone who did. In an emergency, if you receive an alert make sure you let the people around you know,” it said.

Emergency Mobile Alert is an extra channel to help keep you safe in an emergency. It does not replace other alerting systems or the need to take action after natural warnings.

“You should still be prepared for an emergency, and you shouldn’t wait to get an alert before you act. If you feel your life is in danger, don’t wait for an official warning. Take immediate action,” the Get Ready website said.

Find out more here.