Emergency Management Bill
Central government has introduced a new Emergency Management Bill to replace the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002.
The Bill is intended to modernise and strengthen New Zealand’s emergency management system so we are better prepared for emergencies, can respond more effectively when they happen, and recover more quickly afterwards.
At Horowhenua District Council, we reviewed the proposed changes, engaging with the reform process, and considering what they could mean for our district and our community.
What’s being proposed
The Emergency Management Bill proposes a new framework for how emergencies are planned for, managed, and coordinated across the country.
Key elements include:
- Clearer roles and responsibilities for national, regional, and local organisations
- Faster and more flexible decision-making during emergencies
- Stronger requirements for working with communities and iwi and Māori in planning and recovery
- Greater focus on protecting critical infrastructure and lifeline services
- More consistent emergency management practices nationwide
The overall intent is to improve coordination, reduce confusion, and strengthen resilience.
What this could mean for you
If passed, the Bill is expected to:
- Support more consistent and coordinated emergency planning
- Strengthen the role of communities and iwi and Māori in shaping local emergency arrangements
- Improve how agencies work together before, during, and after emergencies
Over time, this should contribute to clearer information, better preparedness, and more coordinated support when emergencies occur.
What it means for Council
If the Bill becomes law:
- Councils will have clearer responsibilities for emergency planning, response, and recovery.
- We will work closely with Emergency Management Committees, partner agencies, iwi and Māori, and communities.
- Local emergency management plans and processes will need to be reviewed and updated.
We’re already considering what these changes could mean in practice so we can plan ahead and continue to support our community effectively.
Next steps
- The Bill is currently before Parliament.
- The public submission period during the select committee stage has now closed. The Bill will continue through the Parliamentary process, including consideration of submissions and potential amendments.
- If passed, councils and emergency management agencies will transition to the new framework over time.
More information about the Bill and its progress is available on the New Zealand Parliament website.
Useful links