Emergency Management Sector Operational Systems

EMS-OS will deliver four key technology solutions:

• Sector foundational data platform that consolidates key national, regional, and local datasets
• Sector data and visualisation tool (Common Operating Picture) – providing real-time insights and enhanced situational awareness
• Operational tools for emergency management personnel to task, collaborate, and manage resources during response and recovery
• Upgrade to the National Warning System for timely, accessible alerts to the public.

These components are intended to operate in an integrated manner to support a more connected and resilient emergency management sector. 

The EMS-OS programme will also develop a further detailed business case to extend the operational tools to the regional and local level. This will enable improved community support with standardised systems and greater support opportunities in an emergency.

The current operational systems used across the sector are fragmented and cannot support a joined-up response at the scale required to manage incidents of regional and national significance.

Reviews over the last 20 years, including the Government Inquiry into the Response to the North Island Severe Weather Events, have found that these systems need to significantly improve to drive better outcomes for New Zealand before, during and after major emergencies.

Investing in Early Warning Capability for Floods and Storms: An appraisal of Benefits and Costs for New Zealand (April 2026) (.pdf 1.3mb)

This London School of Economics report provides an independent, robust cost benefit appraisal of investing in Early Warning Capability for floods and storms in New Zealand. It concludes that proactive investment in early warning technology delivers strong and resilient value for money.