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Coromandel Peninsula needs modern sirens

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August 26, 2025

Patrick Kerr has changed his mind on sirens.

David Yeomans and Patrick Kerr; A photo of a siren in Denmark and soon to be installed in Northland.

Following a revealing meeting this week, mayoral candidate Patrick Kerr has committed to the urgent implementation of a modern all-hazards siren network across the Coromandel Peninsula. Kerr’s initial position against sirens – based on information from TCDC – changed after David Yeomans presented factual evidence exposing significant council inaccuracies.

BY PATRICK KERR

“My emphatic ‘NO’ to sirens at a recent ‘Meet the Candidates’ was witnessed by many. However, when David presented the real facts about modern siren technology, I realised I had not received the complete information.

“Mercury Bay Councillors have sat idle for three years while our communities remain dangerously exposed. Mobile alerts alone are not enough – especially for seniors and those in remote areas,” Kerr stated. “I am advocating for comprehensive coverage along Matarangi, Opito Bay, Whitianga, Pauanui, Tairua and Whangamata.

“Thames Coromandel District Council should be facilitating this by providing logistics and fast-tracking consenting. Timaru Council worked with their communities successfully – there’s no excuse for continued delay.”

David Yeomans, whose expertise changed Kerr’s position, explained, “These solar-powered, remotely activated sirens are smart, self-monitoring, and multi-purpose, capable of broadcasting alert tones and voice instructions for tsunami, wildfire, and chemical hazards.”

This Peninsula’s coastal terrain, ageing population, and limited evacuation routes make it high-risk for tsunami events. “Cyclone Gabrielle exposed digital-only vulnerability. Many areas went days without power or cell coverage. If tsunami warnings were needed, then thousands would never have received them,” Kerr warned.

Linda Cholmondeley-Smith, Grey Power Mercury Bay President, who co-authored the national Grey Power submission with Yeomans, added: “Our older residents are most vulnerable. Many don’t use smartphones or turn them off at night. Relying on mobile alerts alone is asking for disaster.”

Kerr proposes shared funding combining some council allocations, Community Board contributions, and government co-funding. “With the all-hazards siren units starting at around $80,000, the cost is modest compared to the possible catastrophic risk of inaction.”

“As Mayor, I will make reinstating an all-hazards siren system a civil defence priority. No more delays after three years of Mercury Bay Councillors failing to act. This is about saving lives and restoring trust in local leadership,” Kerr concluded.