Published: 2 March 2026
Managing climate and flood risk: What businesses should know
Flood risk in New Zealand is changing rapidly. New nationwide analysis indicates more than 750,000 people live in areas exposed to 1-in-100-year rainfall flooding, with exposure rising under warmer scenarios.
For businesses, exposure is material - large building asset values and critical networks (roads, stormwater, electricity) are already at risk, with exposure increasing under higher warming scenarios.
Recent events underline the point: in January 2026, parts of the North Island experienced record one day rain, widespread flooding and slips, power outages and access disruption, impacting operations across multiple regions.
Flood risk is no longer confined to known hotspots; short, intense rain can also impact areas with limited previous history, with implications for property owners, developers and any business reliant on access and continuity.
• Review your insurance: Confirm flood/storm are included and limits appropriately reflect today’s exposure (and there is no increased excess imposed). Ensure business interruption/temporary premises cover is sized appropriately for your operations and your sum insured is inclusive of trends.
• Update risk information: Provide accurate site details (floor levels, flood history, critical equipment locations, flood mitigation undertaken, Councils’ plans of improved flood banks) so your broker can negotiate suitable terms that help reduce the chance of gaps.
• Plan for resilience: Improve drainage around sites, test emergency/IT recovery plans, and rehearse continuity for access disruption (alternate routes, supplier contingencies, remote work, critical staff access).
A national flood hazard viewer provides consistent floodplain mapping (256 regions) under current and future climates. Use it alongside your council maps to pinpoint sites for closer assessment.
The Government’s National Adaptation Framework sets roles and investment signals for managing climate risk and can help guide long‑term local planning. A public National Flood Map is currently planned for 2027.
Flood risk is evolving. Businesses that understand their exposure and strengthen insurance and continuity now will be better positioned for the next event, while also enhancing their relationship with insurers and improving insurability.
Need help working through your options?
Talk to your local Rothbury broker — we can help you understand your site-specific flood information, advise you on your business interruption and property needs, and guide you through using the new hazard mapping tools.
This guide provides general information only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult your broker or professional advisor for guidance specific to your business.