The Fire Service's internal communication systems meant that news of a tsunami alert for parts of New Zealand was passed to all regions within half an hour of word being received.

The Fire Service was alerted by media reports to the tsunami warning at about 4.30 this morning and all communication centres and national and regional managers were aware before 5am.

From there, all career fire chiefs and volunteer chiefs in coastal towns were notified. Director of operations and training Paul McGill says the Fire Service took the approach that all relevant personnel needed to be informed.

'News from Tonga of the earthquake and tsunami threat was on the BBC World Service, so it was apparent that our people needed to be aware of and monitor news reports until official notification was given.'

'Even though it was unclear whether there was an actual threat, it was in the public arena. Fire Service personnel would be looked to for help in their local communities and needed to be informed.'

Shortly before 6am, the Fire Service received official word of the cancellation of the tsunami warning and all personnel were subsequently advised.