Get Ready Recovery

After a major emergency or disaster such as a severe weather event or large earthquake, many individuals, communities, regions, and nations can be affected. Recovery is all about supporting the cultural and physical well-being of individuals and communities, minimising the escalation of the consequences of a disaster, building resilience and reducing exposure to future hazards, and taking opportunities to regenerate and enhance communities.

This could look like:

• Getting families back into safe, stable housing

• Restoring essential services and livelihoods

• Accessing financial, practical, and emotional support

• Rebuilding and adapting so we are more resilient in the future

Recovery is not a short process; it can take months or even years. It’s important to recognise that everyone’s recovery journey will look different, and support may be needed at different times.

Recovery starts now

Recovery isn’t about waiting to see what happens after an emergency and trying to fix it. Before an emergency occurs, you can improve your ability to recover quickly and effectively by understanding your hazards and risks, making an emergency plan, getting to know your neighbours so you have a support network set up, and preparing any other resources that would be helpful after an emergency.

Check you are insured

The Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake (formerly the Earthquake Commission or EQC), exists to reduce the impact on people and property when natural hazard events occur. If you are a homeowner in Aotearoa, you have natural hazards cover if you have a home insurance policy that includes fire insurance (and most do). However, it’s important to understand the risks you face in your area, and check your insurance to see what’s covered, and how much you’re covered for, so there’s no surprises if your home gets impacted by a natural hazard event.

We recommend keeping copies of important insurance documents in a safe place.

If you would like to learn more about natural hazards cover, visit the Natural Hazards Comission Toka Tū Ake website. 

If your property has been damaged by a natural hazard

• Take photos of the damage and report it. Any damage to your home or land should be reported to your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process. They'll assess, manage and settle your claim on behalf of the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake.

• Keep records of any costs and follow your insurer’s guidance before starting any repairs.

• If your property has been issued with a yellow or red placard, and you wish to change/remove it, you’ll need to contact your insurer for further instruction.