The Government has introduced a new Emergency Management Bill to replace the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002. The Bill updates and strengthens New Zealand’s emergency management system to ensure better preparation, response, and recovery from disasters.
The Bill clarifies the roles of national, regional, and local organisations in emergencies, ensures quicker decision-making, and requires community and iwi/Māori involvement in local and national plans. It also strengthens protections for critical infrastructure and supports consistent emergency management across the country.
Councils will have clearer responsibilities in planning and responding to emergencies. The Bill emphasizes collaboration with Emergency Management Committees, local communities, and iwi/Māori to improve planning and recovery processes.
The Bill is now before Parliament. Once passed, councils and emergency agencies will need to update their plans and practices to meet the new requirements. Members of the public can make submissions during the select committee stage.
Emergency Management Bill Resources:
Next steps
The Bill is now before Parliament. Once passed, councils and emergency agencies will need to update their plans and practices to meet the new requirements. Members of the public can make submissions during the select committee stage.
You can have a say and make a submission on the New Zealand Parliament website. Closing date for submissions is February 15, 2026