Stuart Fraser
Doctor of Philosophy, (Emergency Management)
Study Completed: 2014
College of Humanities & Social Sciences
Citation
Thesis Title
Informing the development of tsunami vertical evacuation strategies in New Zealand
Read article at Massey Research Online: 
New Zealand is at risk of large tsunami generated by earthquakes located short distances offshore. In such an event there may only be minutes to tens of minutes to evacuate before the tsunami arrives. There has been much progress in tsunami risk reduction in the last decade but there is a need to improve evacuation options in places that are a long way from high ground. Vertical evacuation to the upper storeys of tall buildings can provide refuge in such places. Mr Fraser investigated the use of vertical evacuation in the 2011 Great East Japan tsunami to inform the discussion of similar strategies in New Zealand. His study of tsunami evacuation behaviour and simulation of evacuation dynamics demonstrate the potential benefits of vertical evacuation in Napier, Hawke''sBay. His findings inform tsunami evacuation planning to reduce tsunami risk in New Zealand.
Supervisors
Professor David Johnston
Dr Graham Leonard
Dr Paul Greening