Auckland Council Civil Defence and Emergency Management (CDEM) has found that in an emergency situation 48 per cent of people would want Wi-Fi restored before water.

Following an interactive marketing campaign to drive conversations about Civil Defence in Auckland, almost half of respondents have prioritised Wi-Fi as an essential part of everyday life.

Head of Emergency Management and Operations Aaron Davis says, “It did come as a bit of a surprise that half of people would rather have their Wi-Fi back on than water! Once you reflect on it though it’s easy to understand people really value connectivity with family and friends.”

“There are so many things people take for granted that can be compromised in an emergency situation. We need to know what matters to Aucklanders so we can best shape our response to their needs.”

“The draft CDEM group plan has been shaped by conversations with communities and now we need your views – have we got it right? The draft CDEM group plan is out to consultation until Monday 18 April.”

Aucklanders can comment on the draft CDEM group plan now atshapeauckland.co.nz or via social media by using the hastag #akcldem. Post on Facebook to facebook.com/aklcdem or tag@aucklandcdem on Twitter remembering to use the hashtag #aklcdem for both.

Chair of the Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee Councillor Sharon Stewart says the strategy is an important tool for how the council delivers CDEM activity.

“Comment at shapeauckland.co.nz before 18 April and let us know what you think of the plan. Your response will help shape Auckland’s level of resilience in the future.”

Comment on the draft CDEM group plan now at shapeauckland.co.nzuntil 18 April 2016.

For tips on how to prepare for an emergency click here.