Collaboration at the science-policy interface for effective earthquake risk communication in New Zealand

New Zealand is the second most hazardous country in the world according to the UN, and has had recent experiences of destructive earthquakes that have catalysed efforts to improve societal resilience. The Alpine Fault presents the most significant seismic hazard for the South Island, with a 75% probability of generating a magnitude 8 earthquake in the next 50 years (Howarth et al. 2021). An event of this scale will cause widespread damage, and lead to nationally significant economic and social disruption.  The AF8 [Alpine Fault magnitude 8] programme was established in 2016, as a partnership between science and emergency management to build societal awareness and preparedness for a future Alpine Fault earthquake disaster. The programme has used a scenario-based planning approach to improve readiness across local, regional and national contexts. The compelling ‘science story’ of the Alpine Fault is used as a platform to draw people into improving their individual, community and business preparedness. Since its inception, AF8 has had demonstrable impact on improving resilience, from the grassroots to the highest levels of government, and has been awarded for its collaborative governance by Local Government New Zealand. The programme is considered a leader in risk communication, using human-centred design principles to develop engaging digital education resources and social media campaigns. This paper will explore the key elements of the programme; scenario-based planning and effective risk communication to reveal insights that may support other collaborative, science-based risk reduction efforts globally.