In 2018 AF8 released a series of videos to explain why we are taking the Alpine Fault so seriously and help people understand how they can be prepared for the disruption to normal life that a severe earthquake will cause. The four short story videos provide basic information about the Alpine Fault, how responses will be coordinated, and examples of how communities and businesses can be more resilient to the impact of emergencies. A companion set of longer TED Talk-style videos provides the detail for those seeking a more in-depth understanding of the science underpinning AF8.
These four short videos explain why we are taking the Alpine Fault so seriously and help you understand how you can be prepared for the disruption to normal life that a severe earthquake will cause.
Video 1: What is the Alpine Fault features Dr Caroline Orchiston explaining what the Alpine Fault is; how scientists have established beyond doubt that it has an unusually regular seismic history; and uses the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake sequence to illustrate the kinds of impacts that a magnitude 8+ earthquake will have.
Video 2: A Multi Agency Response explains how civil defence will coordinate the response to a significant emergency, including the rupture of the Alpine Fault, and emphasises the need for individuals, families and communities to be well prepared so they can look after themselves and those around them in the immediate aftermath.
Video 3: Building Community Resilience is a case study of the newly opened Camp Glenorchy, at the head of Lake Wakatipu in the Queenstown Lakes District. Camp Glenorchy has been designed to be not only a sustainable development, but also to act as a community hub where locals and visitors will all find assistance.
Video 4: Business Resilience is a case study of the Christchurch company EPL Ltd, whose owner Tom Thomson speaks frankly about the challenges he faced in keeping his business running after the February 2011 earthquakes and how he has ensured his firm is now more resilient.
If you’re looking for more details about the science behind Project AF8, have a look at these videos, featuring some of the leading scientists who have been involved in Project AF8. They are between 17 and 30 minutes long, similar to a TED Talk, and aimed at those who are seeking more detailed information about the Alpine Fault.
Science Talk: Planning for the next big earthquake Dr Caroline Orchiston from Otago University’s Centre for Sustainability, is the Science Lead for Project AF8.
Science Talk: Evidence for past large earthquakes on the Alpine Fault Dr Ursula Cochran is an earthquake geologist from GNS Science.
Science Talk: What will a large earthquake feel like? Professor Brendon Bradley from Canterbury University is a Professor of Earthquake Engineering.
Science Talk: Impacts of an Alpine Fault Quake Associate Professor Tom Wilson from Canterbury University, whose specialist area is disaster risk and resilience.