28 Aug 2026
1 month ago
497 views
New Zealand has passed new legislation replacing the 24-year-old Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002 to create a modern legal framework addressing increasingly complex emergencies with clearer roles, improved powers, and stronger community and iwi Māori involvement. The Bill enhances national consistency, animal welfare during emergencies, and incorporates improvements from past inquiries, while most provisions will commence shortly after Royal assent with some delayed to allow phased implementation. This legislation supports a comprehensive, devolved approach across risk reduction, readiness, response, and recovery, and is part of a broader effort including funding for advanced operational technology and a forthcoming review of the National Civil Defence Emergency Management Plan.
01 May 2026
5 months ago
997 views
The Government is contributing $150,000 to Mayoral Relief Funds to assist communities in the lower North Island affected by recent flooding, with $100,000 allocated to Wellington City and $50,000 to Ruapehu District Council. Minister Mark Mitchell emphasized the importance of this support for clean-up efforts and acknowledged the contributions of emergency responders and community members. These funds aim to quickly address immediate needs but do not replace insurance or other agency support.
31 Mar 2026
6 months ago
1147 views
Mystery Creek near Hamilton is upgrading its over-50-year-old water infrastructure with a $1.35 million Regional Infrastructure Fund loan to increase water storage and support growing visitor numbers. The site hosts National Fieldays, attracting over 110,000 visitors and generating significant economic impact, as well as more than 100 other events annually, and serves as a critical Civil Defence logistics hub. The project includes replacing the water network, installing a 600,000-litre tank, creating up to seven jobs, and aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and resilience ahead of this year’s Fieldays.
14 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1285 views
The Government is urging North Island communities to prioritize safety amid severe weather warnings and recent flooding that has already caused a fatality. Emergency services and agencies, including the NZDF and local Civil Defence, are actively supporting response efforts and have resources pre-positioned in vulnerable areas. Authorities advise avoiding floodwaters, non-essential travel, and staying alert to landslide risks while following updates from official channels for safety guidance.
29 Jan 2026
8 months ago
1416 views
Civil Defence payments are being made available to residents and non-residents affected by severe weather in specific areas of Northland, Bay of Plenty, and East Coast to help cover emergency costs such as food, clothing, and accommodation. Applicants do not need to be on a benefit to qualify and can apply through local Civil Defence centres or MSD’s general enquiries. The Ministry of Social Development is actively assessing ongoing needs and coordinating with regional agencies to continue supporting impacted communities.
29 Jan 2026
8 months ago
1273 views
Health and Mental Health Ministers Simeon Brown and Matt Doocey report ongoing efforts to support storm-affected communities through coordinated health services, including a recovery team and targeted mental health support embedded in local emergency groups. Health New Zealand is collaborating with local authorities to manage environmental health risks and monitor vulnerable, isolated populations, while government agencies oversee essential infrastructure to maintain access to care. Despite the challenges, health services remain operational, with a strong commitment to providing care, addressing emerging risks, and supporting those grieving from the disaster.
26 Jan 2026
9 months ago
1265 views
The Government’s Temporary Accommodation Service (TAS) has been activated to support people displaced by recent severe weather in parts of the North Island. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is coordinating with emergency agencies, local councils, and communities to provide safe accommodation and additional support services, including social, mental health, and financial assistance. Those affected are encouraged to register for temporary accommodation through the TAS website or phone line, though registration numbers are not yet confirmed.
24 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1224 views
Minister Mark Mitchell declared a state of local emergency in Southland due to potential impacts from power outages following a significant weather event, as the Southland Mayors have not been sworn in after local elections. This declaration grants local Civil Defence emergency powers to respond and support services, urging residents to prioritize safety, follow instructions, and stay informed about weather updates. The state of local emergency in Canterbury continues, with the Minister empowered to declare such emergencies when local representatives are unavailable due to election procedures.
22 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1333 views
Minister Mark Mitchell has declared a state of local emergency for Canterbury due to severe weather, as the mayors have not been sworn in after recent elections. The declaration grants local Civil Defence emergency powers to respond effectively. Mitchell urges residents to heed advice from local authorities, prioritize safety, and stay informed through official channels like MetService.
19 Jun 2025
1 year ago
2356 views
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says that communities in Northland are benefitting from $3. 59 million in grants from funds raised through a special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief, two years later. “Cyclone Gabrielle had a devasting impact on Northland, causing widespread destruction to property and requiring significant relief efforts.
19 Jun 2025
1 year ago
2647 views
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says that communities in Hawke’s Bay are benefitting from $4. 77 million in grants from funds raised through a special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief. “Cyclone Gabrielle had a devasting impact on Hawke’s Bay, causing widespread destruction to property and requiring significant relief efforts.