One million ready for earthquake drill

Almost 30,000 people in the Western Bay of Plenty have signed up to take part in New Zealand's largest earthquake drill, which yesterday reached its target of 1 million participants.

Ministry of Civil Defence have organised the New Zealand Shake Out earthquake drill, which will take place at 9.26am on September 26.

In the Western Bay, 28,929 people from a range of businesses have registered to take part in the earthquake drill.

Civil Defence minister Chris Tremain said the goal of 1 million participants was reached yesterday morning when a Wellington school signed up to the challenge.

At 9.26am on September 26, those registered to take part in the drill will drop, cover and hold to practice the appropriate actions to take in an earthquake.

Mr Tremain said Exercise ShakeOut was a chance for Kiwi families, schools and workplaces to help raise awareness and make sure they had a plan for emergencies.

More than 61,000 people in the Bay of Plenty are set to take part in the New Zealand Shake Out earthquake drill.

To sign up, visit www.shakeout.govt.nz