The Thames Coromandel District Council is reminding locals the tsunami sirens will be tested today at noon.

A continuous siren tone will sound on the Firth of Thames, Cooks Beach, Coromandel, Hahei, Kuaotunu, Matarangi, Pauanui, Port Charles, Tairua, Tapu, Thames, Turua, Whangapoua, Whangamata, and Whitianga.

TCDC will be testing the tsunami sirens today at 12pm.

It will last for approximately two minutes and during this time you do not need to evacuate your homes or premises.

In the event of a real tsunami locals will hear a single tone siren for 10 minutes or more. Local radios stations will provide up to the minute information.

But if you live near the coast and feel an earthquake it is important that you do not wait to hear the siren. Go immediately for higher ground and do not go to the beach to have a look.

To better prepare yourself in an emergency alerts can be sent directly to your phone.

To receive these alert text "follow TC_DC" to 8987. This channel has been saved by the TCDC for emergency information.

For more information visit the Thames Valley emergency website at www.thamesvalleycivildefence.co.nz