In danger but unable to talk? Learn how New Zealand’s 111 emergency ‘Silent Solution’ feature works to safely connect you to the Police.

Knowing how to call for help when you can’t voice it is an essential tool for all of us. New Zealand’s emergency network features a vital service known as the “Silent Solution”—a specific protocol designed for situations where speaking aloud could put you or someone else in immediate danger.

If you find yourself in a crisis and need the Police but cannot safely talk, the process is straightforward but critical to remember. When dialing 111 from a mobile, your call is initially filtered by an automated system. If you remain silent, a recorded message will prompt you to press 55 on your keypad. Pushing these digits signals to the operator that your emergency is genuine, immediately transferring your line to the Police call-taker. From there, they will guide you using simple yes-or-no questions, allowing you to tap any key in response to communicate your situation safely. It’s a quiet feature that saves lives—worth sharing with friends and family across the region.