A Civil Defence Organisation has been operative in Inangahua for many years but because of the departure of many key personnel from the District, the Organisation was being re-constructed at the time the earthquake occurred. About six weeks prior to the earthquake Constable Le Fevre and I decided that the unit should be reactivated and it was arranged that he meet Council with a view to inciting more interest in the organization. Following this meeting one Civil Defence Committee meeting was held, but time did not permit to formulate a new plan or procedures before the earthquake.