This section provides practical advice on preparing for and responding to extreme weather events and earthquakes. During an adverse event, this page will be regularly updated with regional-specific information for farmers.
Who to call
In a life-threatening emergency, call 111.
If mobile networks go down, you may still be able to reach emergency services but it’s important to know your options
Dial 111 as usual first. Even if your provider’s network is affected, most phones will try to connect using any available network for emergency calls. If that doesn’t work, move to higher ground or a more open area where coverage is usually better.
If you can’t connect by mobile, use a landline or any other available means to raise the alarm — including a satellite device, radio, or by asking someone nearby for help.
Keep your phone charged, carry a power bank, and know how to switch networks manually. In remote areas, having a backup communication option can make all the difference.
If life or safety is at risk, don’t wait for coverage to return — try every option to call for help.
Finding information
Many Regional Councils have valuable information on their websites or work with Civil Defence to provide updated localised information during adverse events. MPI also has a web page dedicated to disaster and crisis support as does the Rural Support Trust.
- RNZ - NZ News, Current Affairs, Audio On Demand
- Home » National Emergency Management Agency Adverse events: Disaster and crisis support | NZ Government
- Adverse Events | Rural Support Trust NZ
- Civil Defence - Northland Regional Council
- Emergencies (Bay of Plenty Regional Council)
- Civil Defence & Emergency | Hawke's Bay Regional Council
- Severe weather events - who should I contact? | Waikato Regional Council
- Manawatū Whanganui Civil Defence Emergency Management
- Home - Wellington Region Emergency Management Office
- An Emergency - How We'll Inform You - Marlborough District Council
- Help in an emergency - Hurunui District Council
- What you need to know about adverse weather events | Environment Canterbury
- Home | Otago CDEM Group
- Emergency Management Southland
Information for specific adverse event types
For specific resources to help deal with each of these events go to the Preparing for adverse events website section.
Wellbeing
It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed during and after adverse events.
- To help ease the mental load and clarify thinking make a plan. Identify priorities and write down actions.
- Keep in touch with neighbours and attend community or farmer wellbeing events.
- Ask for help
- Eat healthy and nutritious meals and prioritise sleep.
- When possible, take some time off-farm to refresh and recharge.
- Acknowledge the event’s impact, but try and look ahead with positivity, even if it is difficult.
- Reach out to the Rural Support Trust Rural Support Trust | Help and Support for Rural NZ or phone 0800 543 354 and use the resources on the Farmstrong website. Home - Farmstrong - Live Well Farm Well.
Insurance claims
- Always, put your safety first.
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Take as many photos of damage as you can, particularly before you throw items out as these will help support your claim.
- Essential repairs. You can carry these out if it is safe to do so. Please take photos beforehand.
- Minor repairs. Again, please take photos of the damage before you carry these out.