Some health workers at Health NZ public hospitals and services are planning to strike on Thursday 23 October to 7am on Friday 24 October.
Emergency departments will be open for emergencies only. For more information:
Some health workers at Health NZ public hospitals and services are planning to strike on Thursday 23 October to 7am on Friday 24 October.
Emergency departments will be open for emergencies only. For more information:
Extreme heat can cause illness and death. But effective planning and actions can reduce its effects on health.
Stay hydrated with a regular intake of fluid. Try adding a slice of lemon, lime or mint to a jug of water in the fridge.
Water is the best form of fluid, alcohol can dehydrate you more in hot weather.
Try eating frozen banana or other fruit as a cool snack.
Find shade outside wherever possible and stay indoors when you can.
Exercise or do outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the evening if possible.
Keep a close eye on neighbours, especially the elderly, to check they’re okay. Remember, children, older people or those with health concerns may find it more difficult to cope with the heat.
This is especially important on hot days.
Open windows and create a cross breeze or turn on the air conditioning.
If you have to be outside, remember to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap.
As the new school year begins, it’s important to keep your children safe – equip them with a water bottle, appropriate clothing, sunblock and a hat. Perhaps even add a chiller pad to their lunch to keep it cooler for longer.
Keep them safe, hydrated and cool.
If you have any concerns, call Healthline on 0800 611 116
Download posters to display.
Even in New Zealand's mild climate, people can still suffer from health problems when the temperatures rise.
New Zealand does not have an official definition for heatwaves, but climate change is expected to increase both average and maximum temperatures, and the number of hot days in New Zealand is likely to go up.
Everyone can be affected by extreme heat, but babies, young children, older people, those with existing health conditions or on certain medications, and people living alone are more at risk.
Many health problems caused by excessive heat can be prevented. Normally, the body cools itself by sweating, but when it is very hot and humid, sweating does not work as well. This makes the body work harder to stay cool, which can lead to illness and even death.
Guidelines are available for health, community and local government organisations to help them prepare their own heat health response plans.
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora — Heat Health Plans: guidelines and key informationexternal link