Not every emergency situation requires you to leave buildings straight away. In some cases, the safest option is to remain where you are, and wait for further guidance. These situations are known as ‘non-evacuation incidents’ and may include things like chemical or gas leaks, security incidents, earthquakes, flooding, or other hazards occurring nearby.

When to stay where you are

If an incident is happening outside, or in another part of the campus, the safest first step is usually to stay where you are and wait for further instructions. Moving unnecessarily can sometimes place you closer to harm.

Remain calm, stay together in a safe place indoors and await further guidance.

Immediate actions to remember

• Stay where you are unless directed otherwise
• Wait for official instructions before moving
• Support anyone who may need additional assistance
• Contact Security if you need advice or assistance on 0800 627 750

Specific situations:

Earthquake

During an earthquake, stop, cover and hold until the shaking stops. Once it’s safe, assess your surroundings and those around you. If the building appears safe, remaining indoors is often the best option.

Chemical or gas leaks

If there is a chemical or gas incident outside:

• Stay indoors
• Close windows and doors if safe to do so
• Avoid naked flames
• Wait for further instructions

Armed or violent offender: Escape, Hide, Tell

If there is an armed or violent offender on campus, follow New Zealand Police’s Escape, Hide, Tell guidance.

• Escape: If there is a safe way out, leave the area quickly and quietly.
• Hide: If you cannot leave safely, secure yourself in the nearest room. Lock or barricade doors, stay low, out of sight and silence your phone.
• Tell: When it is safe, call 111, then notify Security on 0800 627 750.

Please remain in your location until Police give the official all-clear.

How you’ll receive updates

Depending on the situation, updates may be shared through:

• Student email
• Security
• Building or Emergency Floor Wardens
• PA systems (where available)
• Official university social media channels
• Emergency mobile alerts in severe situations

Please rely on official university and emergency channels for the latest instructions.

If you’re the first to become aware of an incident

If the situation is serious or life-threatening, call 111 first. Once it’s safe to do so, call Security on 0800 627 750.

Waiting for the all-clear

Please don’t leave your location or resume normal activities until the all-clear has been communicated through official channels, such as Security, wardens, PA systems, university communications or advice from emergency agencies such as Police or Fire and Emergency NZ.

The most important thing to remember: Evacuating is not always the safest response. Staying put, remaining calm and waiting for trusted instructions can help keep everyone safe.