Ngā Waipuke Floods
Floods are one of Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland ’s more common hazards and can happen quickly. They occur when heavy rain causes rivers, streams, or drainage systems to overflow, spreading water over normally dry land. Coastal storm surges can also cause flooding, especially in low-lying areas during certain conditions.
The Auckland Anniversary Floods of 2023 show how quickly severe flooding can disrupt lives, damage property, and create dangerous conditions.
Preparing for Floods
It’s important to know what to do before, during, and after a flood to protect yourself, your family, and your property.
- Know your risk: Use our hazard map to check if your property is in a flood-prone area.
- Create an emergency plan: Decide where to go if you need to leave your home, or what you might need to shelter in place. Remember to include your pets of livestock if you have them. Identify higher ground or safe areas away from floodwaters and an evacuation route that will avoid flood waters if possible (use the hazard viewer to help).
- Prepare your property: Regularly clear drains, gutters, and downspouts to ensure they work properly during heavy rain.
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on weather updates and any advice from Auckland Emergency Management , especially during the storm season.
- Move to higher ground: Be prepared to evacuate to higher ground. If you must leave, take your pets. If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them. Check on your neighbours and anyone who may need your help. Check your planned evacuation route avoid flood waters if possible.
- Follow official advice: Listen to and follow advice from Auckland Emergency Management and the emergency services. Be prepared to leave quickly and safely if told to evacuate. Self-evacuate if you feel unsafe.
- Avoid floodwaters: Do not walk or drive through floodwaters as they can be can be dangerous and contaminated. Even shallow, fast-moving water can knock you over or move vehicles.
- Return safely: Only go back to your property when authorities say it’s safe. Floodwater can damage buildings and pose health risks.
- Clean up safely: Wear gloves and protective clothing. Be careful of contaminated water and electrical hazards.
- Check for damage: Look for damage and report any losses to your insurance company.
Types of Flooding
- River flooding: Rivers and streams overflow due to heavy rain or storms, flooding nearby land.
- Flash flooding: Rapid flooding that happens within a short time of heavy rain, a particular problem in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland due to its steep and short catchments.
- Coastal flooding: Low-lying coastal areas flood due to a combination of tides and storms.
- Surface flooding: Water pools on streets and properties when rainwater can’t drain away quickly enough, especially in urban areas. This can be due to blocked drainage features or the storm water network being overwhelmed.
Know your risk: Use our hazard viewer to explore potential risks for different locations. These maps are for information only, updated regularly, and should not be solely relied upon for decision-making.