In July 2008 the Otago Civil Defence Emergency Management group held an exercise based on the scenario of a heavy snowfall which closed roads, isolated rural communities and cut power supplies. People from local emergency and welfare organisations worked together to respond to the problems likely to be presented by 'Operation Snowstorm'. Under the guidance of Otago Emergency Management co-ordinator Scott McNaughton (standing, left), participants included (seated, from left) police staff Vivien Pullar and Inspector Lane Todd, Fire Service representative Rodger Smith, St John staff Max Corboy and Paul McNamara, with Doug Third standing behind, and Otago District Health Board manager Michael Dodds.