Ngā Waipuke Floods

During wet weather, stormwater naturally flows overland to the lowest point. When the stormwater network reaches capacity after heavy rain, or there is a blockage, greater volumes of water flow overland and may cause flooding.

The geography of Tāmaki Makaurau means that most flooding is flash flooding, which occurs rapidly after intense rainfall.

Floodwaters can be dangerous as they can be very deep or travel fast, rise quickly, contain debris (such as trees or downed powerlines), or be contaminated with germs and chemicals.

• 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 after heavy rain.

  • This is the most common type of flooding in Tāmaki Makaurau 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 can pool 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 stormwater network being overwhelmed due to the volume of rain.

• Know your risk

  • Use our Flood Viewer to check if your property is in a flood-prone area.

• Create an emergency plan

  • Know where to go if you need to leave your home.

  • Remember to include any pets or livestock.

  • Identify higher ground, or safe areas away from floodwaters, as well as your evacuation route.

• Prepare your property

  • Regularly clear drains, gutters, and downspouts to ensure they are free before heavy rain.

  • Check with your insurer and understand what would be covered should flooding impact your home.

• Have emergency supplies 

  • In an emergency, you could be stuck at home for an extended period, or need to leave quickly.

  • Consider what supplies you would need to stay safe and comfortable for at least three days

  • Think about what your separate grab bag should contain.

  • Include essentials like water, food, torch/batteries, and a first aid kit.

• Stay informed

  • Keep an eye on weather updates and any advice from Auckland Emergency Management, especially during storm seasons.

During a flood

• Keep your home safe

  • If floodwater is starting to enter your home, turn off the electricity at the mains.

• Move to higher ground

  • Be prepared to evacuate to higher ground.

  • Check on your pets, neighbours, and any dependents who may need your help.

  • Check your planned evacuation route and avoid flood waters if possible.

• Follow official advice

  • Listen to any guidance from Auckland Emergency Management and emergency services.

  • Be prepared to leave quickly, and self-evacuate if you feel unsafe.

• Avoid floodwaters

  • Never walk or drive through floodwaters as they can be can be dangerous, contaminated, or electrically charged from damaged electricity lines.

  • If you come into contact with flood water, thoroughly clean your hands with anti-bacterial soap or hand sanitiser.

• Return safely

  • Listen to the emergency services and Auckland Council, and don’t return to your home until they tell you it is safe to do so.

• Protect yourself

  • Wear rubber gloves and protective clothing.

  • Cover any cuts and grazes you may have to avoid them becoming infected.

  • Be careful of contaminated water and electrical hazards.

• Check for damage

  • Inspect your property for any damage, especially essential services like water, power, gas and sewerage.

  • Keep records and take photos of what has been damaged, then report any losses to your insurance company.

• Clean up safely

  • Remove soft furnishings from your home and clean them where possible.

  • Ventilate or heat your home to allow drying to occur.

  • Clean any clothes or property that have come into contact with floodwater by washing them with hot water, detergent and a household disinfectant bleach solution.