Volcanic Risk Mitigation Plan

Waikato Regional Council's Volcano Risk Mitigation Plan sets out efficient and effective volcano risk management for the Waikato region. Volcano risk management aims to lessen the effects of volcanic hazards such as eruptions, lahars (mud flows) and ashfall by planning for evacuation (where necessary), response and recovery. Risk mitigation plans define the roles of Environment Waikato, district councils, and the community in managing the impacts of potential natural hazard events.

The Waikato region has more volcanic hazards than any other region in New Zealand. This is because:

• A large part of the Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ) lies within or next to the Waikato region’s boundaries.
• Our region contains three presently or potentially active volcanic centres -Tongariro, Taupo and Maroa.
• Many urban areas (for example, Turangi, Taupo, and Tokoroa) lie within the Taupo Volcanic Zone.
• These are vital lifelines (roading, rail, power supply lines) in the Taupo Volcanic Zone.

Waikato Regional Council's Volcano Risk Mitigation Plan aims to achieve efficient and effective volcano risk management through:

• clarifiying the volcano management roles and responsibilities of various agencies
• dealing with the adverse effects of volcanic activity and the management options for minimising them
• planning for response, recovery, monitoring and review activities.