Prepare for flooding emergencies

Last updated: 15 November 2024

With the recent extreme weather, we need to start thinking about what we can do in case of a future flooding emergency.

Why flooding happens

Learn about what causes flooding in Auckland.

Read the full transcript of the video.

Prepare your property and household before a flood happens

There are things you can do to prepare your home before extreme weather strikes.

You can:

• clear your own drains and catchpits, if safe to do so
• make an emergency plan for you and your household, including pets and livestock
• move your car to higher ground, if possible
• move valuables to upper levels or shelves in your home.

If you live in an area at risk of flooding, you can also work to Reduce flooding risks on your property.

See Maintaining our local streams on how you can look after streams next to your property and reduce damage during flooding.

Preparing your property for flooding

Our 'Preparing your property for flooding' guide features information on:

• reasons for flood risk
• ways to reduce flood damage when a storm is expected
• property-related stormwater issues and improvements
• long-term improvements to reduce the impact of future floods.

Protect yourself during a flood

Before anything happens, make sure you know How to report flooding.

If a road is blocked, contact Auckland Transport on 09 355 3553.

Watch our videos on What to do in a flooding emergency.

Recover after a flood

​Stay safe

If you are getting involved with cleaning up storm or flood damage in your community, make sure you keep yourself safe while you're working.

• Stay away from flood waters as they are likely to be contaminated, including flooded streams.
• Wear gloves and boots and do not take unnecessary risks.
• Do not try to clear landslips yourself.
• Ask for help or contact us for big jobs.

Ask for help

• Request urgent clean-up in your community — call 0800 CLEAN UP (0800 253 268).
• Request help with non-urgent clean-up — contact the Student Volunteer Army.

Find out how to recover after a flood.