Severe weather States of Emergency in 2026 already match last year

New Zealand is grappling with widespread severe weather, prompting an unprecedented number of states of emergency this year. As of February 2026, eight such declarations have been made, matching the total for all of 2025, as heavy rainfall and flooding continue to impact the North Island.

Widespread Emergency Declarations

The recent surge in states of emergency surpasses the frequency seen in 21 of the past 24 years, according to Civil Defence data. Over the weekend, authorities in Ōtorohanga District, Waipā District, and the Manawatū‑Whanganui Region declared states of emergency due to escalating floodwaters. Previously declared local states of emergency in Tararua, Rangitikei, and Manawatū Districts were integrated into the broader regional declaration at 6:37 PM on Sunday.

Tragic Loss of Life

The severe weather has already claimed at least one life. A man died on Friday evening when his ute became submerged in floodwaters on State Highway 39, between Pirongia and Ōtorohanga. This tragedy follows a series of weather-related fatalities earlier in the year.

Did You Know? New Zealand has declared a national state of emergency only three times in its history: during the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, the Covid-19 pandemic, and Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023.

Climate Change and Extreme Weather

Scientists at NIWA suggest a link between the intensifying storms and a warmer atmosphere, attributing it to climate change. A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall and stronger winds. The year began with a deadly subtropical low impacting the upper North Island, triggering states of emergency in Whangārei District, Thames-Coromandel District, Hauraki District, the Bay of Plenty Region, and Tairāwhiti Region between January 20, and 21.

Earlier January Impacts

The January storms resulted in nine deaths. Six people died when a landslide struck a Mount Maunganui holiday park, two perished in a landslide at a Pāpāmoa home, and one man died after his vehicle was swept away near Warkworth. Whitianga and Tauranga experienced their wettest days on record during this period.

Expert Insight: The declaration of multiple states of emergency within a short timeframe highlights the increasing vulnerability of New Zealand to extreme weather events and the significant strain placed on emergency response resources.

Understanding States of Emergency

A state of emergency is a formal legal mechanism that grants special powers to authorized officials responding to an emergency. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), it enables a swift and effective response when normal procedures are insufficient. These powers include the ability to close roads, remove hazards, provide essential aid, and even requisition resources. A declaration remains in effect for up to seven days, subject to extension or termination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a state of emergency?

A state of emergency is a formal legal mechanism under the Civil Defence Emergency Management framework that activates special powers for authorised officials responding to an emergency.

How long does a state of emergency last?

These powers remain in effect for up to seven days, unless the declaration is extended or terminated earlier.

What powers are granted during a state of emergency?

Emergency powers available include the ability to close roads, remove dangerous structures, provide rescue and aid, conserve supplies, and evacuate premises.

As New Zealand continues to face these challenging weather conditions, communities are bracing for potential further disruption. It remains to be seen whether additional states of emergency will be necessary as the situation evolves.