Kaikoura could soon have a Neighbourhood Support network but not until someone volunteers to help out, says Tasman Neighbourhood Support administrator Robin Harris.

He said Neighbourhood Support, formerly known as Neighbourhood Watch, was a way of looking out for your neighbours and preparing for an emergency.

A request for volunteers last month drew no responses, he said.

He is looking for a Kaikoura resident to do a letter drop so he can gather data about residents which will then be used by Civil Defence in the case of a natural disaster or emergency.

"Emergency services can then look up the database for a street and make sure everyone is accounted for and assistance will be provided where needed," Mr Harris said.

Once the information has been collated, street groups will be set up and a co-ordinator will organise meetings.

The Christchurch earthquake was a good example of how effective a Neighbourhood Support network could be, he said.

"The Neighbourhood Support teams did an excellent job in recovery and providing resources," he said.

To get involved contact Robin Harris on ns.marlb@ xtra.co.nz

- © Fairfax NZ News

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