Mayor Ogden praises tsunami response

Mayor David Ogden is praising the efforts of those involved in Hutt City's civil defence response to yesterday's tsunami threat.

"Everyone rose to the challenge and handled the situation calmly and professionally," he said.

"I joined our team at the Hutt Valley Emergency Management Office and was impressed by their preparedness and way in which they went about their work.

"They worked from the early hours of the morning to evaluate the situation, monitor updates and make decisions about the appropriate response according to latest information.

"I want to thank them and the rest of the Incident Management Team, made up of Hutt City Council staff, the Fire Service, and Police, for their efforts.

"My thanks also to the many organisations that pitched in and gave a helping hand - the Fire Police, Fire Service Eastbourne Volunteer Brigade, Wainuiomata Bush Fire Force, Upper Hutt Rural Fire Force, Fulton Hogan and Downer EDI.

"The Salvation Army deserves a special mention for setting up a kitchen to feed those involved in the tsunami alert.

"It was a terrific response to what was a potentially serious situation for our residents, and it's reassuring to know we have people and organisations ready to respond to such threats.

"The tsunami threat is another reminder to all of us about the need to be prepared for an emergency," Mayor Ogden concluded.