The cautionary handling of the effects of Russia's earthquake, which triggered tsunami phone alerts and some coastal evacuation, has been further explained.

The 8.8 magnitude quake shunted tsunami waves across the Pacific - the largest to hit our shores, landing on the Chatham Islands at 51 centimetres. 

Unpredictable currents are expected to continue until tomorrow. 

Civil Defence Director John Price says precautions are important - and he's defending the use of emergency alerts.

LISTEN ABOVE

The cautionary handling of the effects of Russia's earthquake, which triggered tsunami phone alerts and some coastal evacuation, has been further explained.
The 8.8 magnitude quake shunted tsunami waves across the Pacific - the largest to hit our shores, landing on the Chatham Islands at 51 centimetres.&nbsp;
Unpredictable currents are expected to continue until tomorrow.&nbsp;
Civil Defence Director John Price says precautions are important - and he's defending the use of emergency alerts.
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

John Price: Civil Defence Director defends use of emergency alert system

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/2b848679-d778-4edf-b03b-b32b0061e88e/transcript