Analysis of Felt Detailed ‘Final Comments’ for the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake

Abstract

The GeoNet “Felt Detailed” survey collects information about people’s experiences after earthquakes - from behavioural responses through to damage to buildings and infrastructure. One of the questions asked at the end of the survey is whether people have any ‘Final Comments’. This is an open-ended question, where people can add any information that they wish. Our research was focused on the analysis of these ‘Final Comments’ to understand the kind of information that is provided by the public. We used manual coding of 977 comments in particular relating to experiences of the 2016 Kaikōura Earthquake. We arranged these into three categories: (1) psychological response to earthquake: fear and quest for reassurance (21.1% of comments), (2) call for accountability and renewed hope in earthquake response(30.4% of comments), and (3) navigating experiences, responses, and preparedness (48.6% of comments). These themes were further identified into sub-themes. The analysis shows that respondents have a strong interest in earthquake science, particularly in advancements in early warning and enhanced tsunami warning systems following the Kaikōura earthquake. Most respondents are knowledgeable about protective actions, emergency preparedness, and structural reinforcements. The experience of earthquakes has further led to a focus on personal and structural preparedness, with comments indicating a strong commitment to household preparedness. This analysis opens up possibilities for further investigation into how people experience and behave during seismic events, and how they interact with both structural and non-structural factors.