Although the total number of claims was lower than previous periods, the data reflect the ongoing instability of weather patterns, particularly in regions still recovering from major disasters, such as the North Island floods and Cyclone Gabrielle.
According to the latest Wild Weather Tracker, the North Island accounted for 84% of all storm-related claims over the six-month period, with Hawke’s Bay being the fourth most affected region.
Amanda Whiting (pictured), CEO of AMI, State, and NZI, emphasised the extensive damage caused by these storms, pointing to recent weather events that have devastated local communities.
“The weather events of autumn and winter this year have been extensive, causing millions of dollars in damage. We have seen firsthand the devastating impacts of a warmer winter climate through flooding in towns such as Pahīatua, Wainuiomata, and Wairoa,” she said.
She also noted the ongoing response to a severe storm in Dunedin, where a state of emergency was declared after the city experienced its wettest day in over 100 years. That event has already generated more than 600 claims.
“The city observed its wettest day in over a century, as residents evacuated their homes,” Whiting said. “We will be working hard to help our customers who have been affected by this event in the weeks and months ahead.”
Whiting explained that New Zealand’s geography, combined with its climate, makes it especially vulnerable to natural hazards, stressing the need for a proactive approach to risk management.
“New Zealand’s geology, rivers, oceans, and subtropical-to-cooler climate all combine to make one of the world’s riskiest locations for natural hazards. This is why, for over a decade, we have been clear that New Zealand needs to take urgent action to keep people safe from the impacts of natural hazards and climate change,” she said.
She highlighted that greater focus on risk reduction and resilience is needed alongside the current emphasis on recovery.
Whiting also referred to the Finance and Expenditure Committee’s recent report on climate adaptation, calling for its recommendations to be turned into concrete action.
“The Finance and Expenditure Committee report on climate adaptation does a good job of describing the problem our country faces, and it outlines some sensible recommendations. We now need to see the recommendations turn into actions, so New Zealanders will have more certainty on how the impact of the natural hazards they face can be reduced,” she said.
In the wake of the Finance and Expenditure Committee’s report, the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ) has called for political parties to align in their response to the escalating risks posed by climate change.
ICNZ CEO Kris Faafoi stated that a national strategy is needed to protect communities, infrastructure, and assets from these increasing threats. He also recommended the establishment of a lead agency to coordinate climate adaptation efforts between government, local authorities, and the private sector.
