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Civil Defence and Emergency Management

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) coordinates responses to natural disasters and other emergencies.

Sections

1. Overview of Civil Defence and Emergency Management in New Zealand

New Zealand's Civil Defence and Emergency Management system is designed to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, volcanic eruptions, storms, and other hazards. The system is governed by national legislation and coordinated across local, regional, and national levels.

Key Agencies Involved:

  • National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA): Oversees and coordinates emergency management at the national level.
  • Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Groups: Regional groups responsible for local emergency planning and response.
  • Emergency Services: Includes Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), New Zealand Police, St John Ambulance, and Wellington Free Ambulance.
  • Local Authorities: Councils play a key role in community preparedness and response.
  • Lifeline Utilities: Organizations responsible for critical infrastructure like electricity, water, and telecommunications.

2. National Regulations

The Civil Defence and Emergency Management system in New Zealand is governed by the following key legislation and frameworks:

a. Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002

  • Establishes the legal framework for managing emergencies.
  • Requires the creation of CDEM Groups in each region.
  • Mandates the preparation of CDEM Group Plans outlining risk management, response, and recovery strategies.

b. National CDEM Plan Order 2015

  • Provides a national framework for managing emergencies.
  • Outlines roles and responsibilities of agencies, including NEMA, CDEM Groups, and emergency services.

c. Health and Safety at Work Act 2015

  • Ensures workplaces are prepared for emergencies and hazards.

d. Resource Management Act 1991

  • Requires local authorities to consider natural hazards in land-use planning.

e. Building Act 2004

  • Sets standards for building safety, including earthquake resilience.

3. Structure of Emergency Services

Emergency services in New Zealand are well-coordinated and work together during emergencies. Hereโ€™s how they are structured:

a. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ):

  • Handles fire-related emergencies, rescues, and hazardous material incidents.
  • Provides urban and rural fire services.

b. New Zealand Police:

  • Maintains public safety, law enforcement, and search-and-rescue operations.

c. Ambulance Services:

  • St John Ambulance and Wellington Free Ambulance provide emergency medical services.
  • St John covers most of the country, while Wellington Free Ambulance serves the Wellington region.

d. Search and Rescue (SAR):

  • LandSAR (Land Search and Rescue) and Coastguard New Zealand handle search-and-rescue operations on land and at sea.

e. Lifeline Utilities:

  • Organizations like power companies, water suppliers, and telecommunications providers ensure critical services are restored quickly after an emergency.

4. Standard Procedures in Emergencies

New Zealand has a well-defined process for managing emergencies, which includes the following phases:

a. Reduction (Risk Management):

  • Identifying and mitigating risks before they become emergencies.
  • Includes land-use planning, building codes, and public education.

b. Readiness (Preparedness):

  • Public awareness campaigns (e.g., "Get Ready" by NEMA).
  • Encouraging individuals and households to prepare emergency kits and plans.
  • Regular training and exercises for emergency services.

c. Response:

  • Immediate actions taken during an emergency to save lives and protect property.
  • Includes evacuation, search and rescue, and emergency medical care.
  • Coordinated through Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) at local, regional, and national levels.

d. Recovery:

  • Long-term efforts to restore communities and infrastructure.
  • Includes financial assistance, rebuilding, and psychological support.

5. General Costs

a. Emergency Services:

  • Fire and Police services are free for emergencies.
  • Ambulance services may incur a cost:
    • St John Ambulance charges approximately NZD $98 for emergency callouts (as of 2023).
    • Wellington Free Ambulance is free in the Wellington and Wairarapa regions.

b. Civil Defence Services:

  • Funded by the government and local councils, so there is no direct cost to individuals for civil defence assistance.

c. Insurance:

  • It is highly recommended to have home, contents, and vehicle insurance.
  • The Earthquake Commission (EQC) provides natural disaster insurance for residential properties as part of home insurance policies.

6. Country-Specific Considerations

New Zealandโ€™s unique geography and location make it prone to natural disasters. Visitors and immigrants should be aware of the following:

a. Earthquakes:

  • New Zealand lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making earthquakes common.
  • Familiarize yourself with "Drop, Cover, and Hold" earthquake safety procedures.
  • Download the GeoNet app for real-time earthquake and tsunami alerts.

b. Tsunamis:

  • Coastal areas are at risk of tsunamis.
  • Know the natural warning signs (e.g., strong or long earthquakes, sudden sea level changes).
  • Follow evacuation routes marked in coastal areas.

c. Volcanic Eruptions:

  • Active volcanic zones exist, particularly in the North Island (e.g., Tongariro, White Island/Whakaari).
  • Stay informed through GeoNet and local authorities.

d. Flooding and Storms:

  • Heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
  • Monitor weather updates from MetService (New Zealandโ€™s meteorological service).

e. Emergency Alerts:

  • New Zealand uses an Emergency Mobile Alert system to send notifications to mobile phones during emergencies.

7. How to Prepare as a Visitor or Immigrant

a. Emergency Kit:

  • Prepare a kit with essentials like water, food, a torch, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents.

b. Emergency Plan:

  • Know the evacuation routes and emergency meeting points in your area.
  • Discuss plans with your family or travel group.

c. Stay Informed:

  • Follow updates from NEMA, GeoNet, and MetService.
  • Sign up for local alerts and notifications.

d. Community Involvement:

  • Join local community groups or attend workshops to learn more about emergency preparedness.

8. Key Resources

Conclusion

New Zealandโ€™s Civil Defence and Emergency Management system is comprehensive and well-prepared to handle a wide range of emergencies. Visitors and immigrants should familiarize themselves with local risks, prepare emergency kits, and stay informed through official channels. By understanding the structure, regulations, and procedures, you can ensure your safety and contribute to the resilience of your community.