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Watch: 'Glass or three of red' - Minister misses tsunami alert after turning phone off

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  Shane Jones said he was asleep by 8.45pm after enjoying 'a great dinner' with wine.

Minister Shane Jones Unperturbed by Tsunami Alert, Admits to Switching Off Phone Amid Emergency


In a candid revelation that has sparked both amusement and criticism, New Zealand's Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has admitted to turning off his phone during an early morning tsunami alert, remaining unfazed by the potential crisis. The incident, which unfolded in the wake of a powerful earthquake off the coast of New Zealand, highlights the sometimes unconventional approach of one of the country's more colorful political figures. Jones, known for his forthright style and no-nonsense demeanor, shrugged off the alert, emphasizing his confidence in the nation's civil defense systems and his own need for uninterrupted rest.

The event in question stemmed from a significant seismic event that triggered tsunami warnings across parts of New Zealand's eastern coastline. Early on a crisp morning, alarms blared through emergency notification systems, urging residents in vulnerable areas to prepare for possible inundation. The earthquake, registering a magnitude that prompted immediate action from GeoNet and Civil Defence, sent ripples of concern through communities, with evacuations ordered in low-lying regions. For many New Zealanders, the alert was a stark reminder of the country's position on the volatile Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic activity is a constant threat. Memories of past events, such as the 2011 Christchurch earthquake and the more recent Kaikoura quake in 2016, loomed large, underscoring the importance of swift and coordinated responses.

Yet, amid this atmosphere of heightened vigilance, Minister Jones chose a path of deliberate disconnection. In an interview following the all-clear, he explained his decision with characteristic bluntness. "I turned my phone off," Jones stated plainly, adding that he was not about to let a potential tsunami disrupt his sleep. "I've got faith in our systems. If it was serious, someone would have banged on my door." This response, delivered with a mix of humor and defiance, paints a picture of a minister who prioritizes personal boundaries even in the face of national emergencies. Jones, a veteran politician from New Zealand First, has long been known for his unfiltered commentary and willingness to challenge conventions. His role as Oceans and Fisheries Minister places him at the intersection of environmental policy and natural disaster management, making his nonchalant attitude all the more noteworthy.

To understand Jones' stance, it's essential to delve into the broader context of New Zealand's emergency response framework. The country's Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) system is designed to be robust, with multiple layers of alerts including text messages, sirens, and app notifications. During the tsunami warning, these mechanisms were activated promptly, ensuring that the public received timely information. GeoNet, the geological hazard monitoring agency, provided real-time updates, while local councils coordinated evacuations. The alert was eventually downgraded as monitoring showed no significant wave activity, but not before thousands of residents had taken precautionary measures, such as moving to higher ground or preparing emergency kits.

Jones' decision to switch off his phone raises questions about the expectations placed on public officials during such events. As a cabinet minister, particularly one overseeing oceans and fisheries—sectors directly impacted by marine hazards like tsunamis—there is an implicit duty to remain accessible. Critics have pointed out that his actions could undermine public confidence in leadership during crises. Opposition figures, including those from the Labour and Green parties, have seized on the incident to question Jones' suitability for his portfolio. "While the rest of us were checking alerts and ensuring our families were safe, the minister was catching some Z's with his phone off," remarked one opposition MP in a statement. "This isn't just about personal choice; it's about responsibility."

However, supporters of Jones argue that his confidence reflects a deeper trust in the system's efficacy. New Zealand's emergency protocols are among the most advanced in the world, bolstered by lessons from past disasters. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which claimed over 200,000 lives globally, prompted international reforms that New Zealand adopted enthusiastically. Today, the country boasts sophisticated early warning systems, including seismic sensors and ocean buoys that detect wave anomalies in real-time. Jones himself has been involved in policy discussions around coastal resilience, advocating for stronger fisheries protections and marine conservation efforts that indirectly enhance disaster preparedness.

Expanding on Jones' background adds layers to this story. A former Labour MP who defected to New Zealand First, Jones has built a reputation as a maverick. His tenure has been marked by controversial decisions, such as pushing for mining and forestry expansions in sensitive areas, often clashing with environmentalists. Yet, his expertise in regional development and economic affairs has earned him respect in rural and coastal communities, where tsunamis pose real economic threats to fishing industries. In his ministerial role, Jones has overseen initiatives to bolster the seafood sector against climate change impacts, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events. The tsunami alert, while not resulting in actual damage, served as a timely test of these preparations.

Jones' unfazed demeanor also invites reflection on the human element in crisis management. In an era of constant connectivity, where smartphones deliver instant notifications, the act of turning off one's device can be seen as a radical assertion of autonomy. Psychologists note that such alerts, while life-saving, can induce unnecessary stress if not managed properly. Jones' approach might resonate with those who feel overwhelmed by the barrage of digital warnings. "I'm not glued to my phone 24/7," he quipped in follow-up comments. "Life goes on, and so does a good night's sleep."

The incident has not gone without repercussions. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, in a press briefing, acknowledged the need for ministers to stay informed but stopped short of reprimanding Jones. "Shane is a capable minister, and we all handle stress differently," Luxon said. Nonetheless, internal reviews may follow to ensure protocols for high-level officials are clear. Public reaction has been mixed: social media buzzed with memes portraying Jones as a laid-back hero or an irresponsible leader, reflecting the polarized views on his persona.

Looking ahead, this episode underscores the evolving nature of disaster response in New Zealand. With climate change amplifying the frequency and intensity of natural hazards, including tsunamis triggered by undersea quakes or volcanic activity, the government is investing heavily in resilience. Jones' portfolio includes funding for coastal mapping and early warning enhancements, projects that could prevent future scares from escalating. His nonchalant response, while controversial, might inadvertently highlight the strength of these systems—if even a minister feels secure enough to disconnect.

In the end, Shane Jones' phone-off moment during the tsunami alert encapsulates the blend of pragmatism and personality that defines his political style. It serves as a reminder that behind the machinery of emergency management are individuals with their own quirks and confidences. As New Zealand continues to navigate its precarious geological landscape, the balance between vigilance and normalcy remains a delicate one. Whether Jones' approach inspires emulation or caution, it certainly adds a human touch to the often impersonal world of disaster preparedness. (Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full The New Zealand Herald Article at:
[ https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/oceans-and-fisheries-minister-shane-jones-turns-phone-off-unfazed-by-early-morning-tsunami-alert/PF7OW47AH5DV5MKCAHDKTOPBN4/ ]