Auckland local boards strengthen emergency preparedness, two years after floods

Two years after the Auckland Anniversary floods, which are described as a "once-in-a-century event", the city's emergency management is working with 19 local boards to improve emergency preparedness.

The floods, which claimed four lives, saw emergency services respond to around 700 calls for help.

West Auckland was among the worst-hit areas.

In late 2024, Auckland Emergency Management helped 19 of 21 local boards adopt tailored Emergency Readiness and Response Plans to strengthen community resilience.

Dr Will Flavell, Deputy Chair of Henderson-Massey, welcomes the initiative.

“It’s been a couple of years since we had the devastating Auckland floods during Cyclone Gabrielle back in 2023. It definitely caused massive damage in West Auckland,” he recalls.

Flavell remembers the floods as chaotic.

“I think it was very unorganised back in 2023. The floods came so quickly, and a lot of people didn’t know what to do or how to find emergency housing or shelter.”

He believes climate change makes it crucial to anticipate any emergency. Flavell stresses the importance of preparedness.

Dr Will Flavell, deputy chair of the Henderson-Massey local board, says the emergency plan must be accessible. Photo/file.

“The plan is important because it helps guide us in future emergencies, giving practical guidance to residents and local businesses on how to stay safe and what to do before, during, and after an emergency.”

He highlights how the plan outlines steps to reduce risks, prepare for emergencies, and navigate recovery.

Flavell also emphasises the need for accessibility.

“It needs to be in an accessible language, which is really important. It needs to be in the different languages that our communities speak, particularly in West Auckland, we're very diverse.”

He hopes the plan was developed through consultation with diverse communities, including mana whenua, church-based and faith-based groups, and other key agencies.

“The uniqueness of the Henderson-Massey Local Board area needs to be understood,” he says.

He also hopes the plan will be accessible on an app and available in libraries and within the community.

Flavell is aware of homeowners still dealing with the aftermath of the floods.

“I know that Council was working really hard to ensure that there was help with insurance payouts for those storm-affected properties,” he says.

However, issues related to properties remain an ongoing concern between the affected homeowners, Auckland Council and the government.

“In terms of the experiences, you know, I mean the mental wellbeing and stress that caused, for so many.

“I remember seeing images and photos and videos of people not knowing what to do, rushing out of their homes and properties and seeking help and support - while not knowing where the local shelter was.

West Auckland was one of the hardest-hit suburbs during the Auckland Anniversary weekend floods of 2023. Photo/RNZ Rayssa Almeida

“That was really scary to see. and so this emergency response plan, I think, was really important for us to develop, particularly with those tips.”

He stresses the importance of integrating this emergency preparedness into schools, as schools play a role in supporting the transmission of information.

Auckland Emergency Management collaborated with each local board to create a tailored plan for each area's needs.

Councillor Sharon Stewart, chair of Auckland Council’s Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee, says these plans will significantly improve Auckland’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergency events.

“People are the lifeblood of their community, and during an emergency, communities play an invaluable role alongside official agencies in mucking in, helping out, and potentially saving lives.”

She adds the plans will enhance preparedness and response across the region.

Adam Maggs, General Manager of Auckland Emergency Management, and Councillor Sharon Stewart. Photo/Auckland Emergency Management Facebook/Auckland Council

"The emergency readiness and response plans that span most communities across the region will enhance each area’s emergency preparedness and ability to respond in times of crisis.”

Adam Maggs, General Manager of Auckland Emergency Management, encourages Aucklanders to familiarise themselves with their local plans.

“Each local board area has a unique geographical, social, and hazard profile. That’s why we’ve tailored bespoke Emergency Readiness and Response plans to meet the needs of the different areas across the region.”

Maggs urges all Aucklanders to read their local board’s plan and keep it handy.

“The plans aim to foster personal confidence and empowerment by encouraging individuals and communities to take responsibility for their emergency preparedness.”

The 2023 floods and Cyclone Gabrielle have highlighted the need for stronger response plans, with lessons learned emphasising local preparedness and community support.

Dr Will Flavell, deputy chair of the Henderson-Massey local board highlights how important the tips are in the emergency plan. Photo/Auckland Emergency Management Facebook

The plans include input from community and faith-based groups, experts, and key agencies, covering priority hazards, risk reduction strategies, emergency preparedness tips, and recovery guidance.

Printed copies will be available in libraries and community centres, and digital versions are available on the revamped Auckland Emergency Management website, alongside tools like the new civil defence centre map.

The Emergency Readiness and Response plans will be regularly reviewed to ensure they remain effective.

This year, Auckland Emergency Management will focus on community outreach, offering workshops for those interested in setting up Community Emergency Hubs.

Resources and readiness information will be provided to groups looking to help their members prepare for emergencies.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

Physical copies of the plan will be available at libraries and community centres. Photo/Auckland Emergency Management Facebook