Evaluating the relevance and effectiveness of AF8 since the project began in 2016

Abstract

The work of AF8 is fundamentally about supporting good planning and coordination of all key agencies in the South Island to effectively respond (in the first seven days) to a significant future earthquake on the Alpine Fault. Work to date has focussed on bringing leading science research into the development of an Alpine Fault magnitude 8 scenario, which then informed the response planning phase, culminating in the SAFER Framework. Engaging in wider engagement and outreach activities has been on-going, aimed to increase the understanding and access to information by the wider community around how to plan and respond to a future Alpine Fault earthquake. A key feature of AF8 has been that is has represented a collaborative effort across a range of agencies, organisations, and locations. An additional aspect of AF8’s work has therefore been testing and demonstrating how to undertake a complex collaborative project, that requires the integration of knowledge, skills and expertise. Given the period of time that has elapsed since the AF8 was established, it is timely to conduct an evaluation of the project to identify: - the extent to which it is contributing to its intended outcomes - any other unintended outcomes (positive and negative) - lessons learned, that could be usefully applied to other similar types of projects. In essence, this evaluation research aims to understand the relevance, need and coherence of AF8’s efforts, as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of the work produced. Key informant interviews will be conducted over the next two months to ascertain the contribution AF8 has made to building resilience. This process is vital to continuing the co-creation approach taken by AF8, which requires reflection and listening to feedback from across the network of stakeholders who have helped to make AF8 a success.