On January 14th, 2012 at 13:47 UTC time an earthquake with a magnitude of 4.5 struck the south islands of New Zealand. This included Wellington, the capital. The earthquake occurred 182 miles away from Wellington. This was just one of many earthquakes that happen in the Wellington region. One of the worst earthquakes that hitin Wellington New Zealand was January 23rd, 1855. This earthquake was a magnitude of 8.2. In the overall earthquake, there were four casualties. In Wellington there was only one. Damage was extensive with many buildings collapsing. This earthquake was the most powerful ever recorded in Wellington New Zealand.
Mt. Wellington is the the largest scoria cone in the Auckland Volcanic Field. The last time the volcano erupted was about 9000 years ago. Scientists believe that Mt. Wellington will not erupt again, but it will probably occur in a new location. Another natural disaster that doesn't occur often in Wellington is tsunamis. Wellington is prepared for the potential threat. They have developed maps that identify areas within the region which may be at risk from tsunamis.
New Zealand' s economy is based on agriculture. Their main exports are meat, dairy products, forest products, fruits, vegetables, fish, and wool. Also, New Zealand's economy has been helped by relations with Australia. These two countries are partner in Closer Economic Relations. This allows free trade in goods and most services. New Zealand welcomes and encourages foreign investment without discrimination. Wellington New Zealand has a great economy.
Wellington New Zealand is a busy place full of many people. The population is around 448,956 in the year of 2006. Many people in Wellington are in the occupational group if 'Professionals'. Citizens 15 years and over most likely have jobs. The average income is around $28,000. Wellington has a temperate climate. The average daily temperature is around 20.3 C. The average daily temperature for winter is 5.9 C. Where ever you live you are probably within one hour from the ocean. You could mountain bike, snowboard, and surf on the same day. Wellington also has a lot of music and operas. Some of the worlds top opera singers, musicians, writers, and painters. Wellington has a variety of cuisine and many wineries for man different kinds of people.
Wellington New Zealand takes there disaster preparedness plan very seriously. Celia Wade-Brown, mayor of Wellington, said " Reducing the risks, being ready and encouraging households, schools, and workplaces to be ready, strengthening water, power and transport infrastructure are some ways that we prepare for disasters." Wellington has already strengthened a number of public buildings like the civic art gallery, but have more to do. They are half way through strengthening their social housing. "We run emergency drills every six months or so but I think these need to
involve more people more actively" says Mayor Brown. Wellington New Zealand is very active in improving the community for natural disasters.