A tsunami warning system will be installed this month along the coast near Christchurch, with 22 sirens scheduled to operate from July 1.

The move is a result of Christchurch City Council’s annual community consultation process.

Residents signed a petition asking for the warning system in early 2010. It was to be in place by last June, but the council says the devastating Canterbury earthquakes and their aftermath delayed installation.

The area’s main tsunami risk comes from South America, where a large earthquake could generate waves five metres above sea level for Christchurch.

The council says it would have 12-15 hours notice of a distant tsunami, giving residents time to secure possessions and move inland or uphill if they hear the sirens.

Council Manager for Civil Defence and Emergency Management Murray Sinclair told insuranceNEWS.com.au residents should remain alert for hazards.

The council is aware of the remote possibility of a local tsunami caused by the Kaiapoi fault in Pegasus Bay, off the coast of Christchurch, which could generate a one to two-metre wave that would reach the shore in five to 10 minutes – too quick to activate a warning.

“This is extremely low risk,” Mr Sinclair said. “Our main risk is from South America.”