National Recovery Office
A National Recovery Office (NRO) has been established to lead and coordinate central Government’s ongoing role in the recovery following the January-February 2026 severe weather events.
Recovery is the process to help communities get back on their feet more quickly after an emergency response.
Beginning on 15 January 2026, a series of storm systems brought severe weather to the upper North Island, peaking 21-22 January where more than two months of rain fell within 12 hours overnight in parts of the Bay of Plenty. Over 13-15 February 2026, another storm system brought severe weather to the middle and lower half of the North Island and the east coast of the South Island, resulting in extensive flooding, landslides and severe wind damage. The impacts across the regions from flooding, landslides and wind damage were significant, and tragically 10 people lost their lives.
Multiple districts are in recovery from the January and February 2026 severe weather events.
Our Role
The National Recovery Office is a temporary unit established within NEMA to enable a coordinated approach to recovery at the national level.
Recovery means the coordinated efforts and processes to bring about the immediate, medium and long term holistic regeneration and enhancement of a community following an emergency (definition from the CDEM Act 2002).
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More information about recovery, including guidance and templates for CDEM Groups and local authorities, is available in the Recovery section of this website.
What we do
The NRO is responsible for coordinating central government agencies in support of locally led recovery efforts. The NRO is currently coordinating an all of government process to:
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Work with CDEM Group Recovery Managers and central government agencies to coordinate recovery activities and identify what can be supported within existing settings and funding.
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Provide a consolidated national picture through ongoing assessment, monitoring and reporting to ensure decision makers across government are kept informed of recovery progress.
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Provide guidance for Regional and Local councils (in partnership with iwi) to prepare recovery plans for impacted communities.
Iwi, hapū and marae played an important role supporting communities during the response phase, including providing welfare and community support to affected whānau.
Māori providers and iwi organisations remain important partners in local recovery efforts, particularly in supporting vulnerable households and community wellbeing, and hosting recovery hubs.
Where you can get support
Find out what support you can get if you have been affected by the recent severe weather.
Local information and recovery updates
Check with your local council or Civil Defence Emergency Management Group for the latest information about recovery efforts in your area.