Landslides have become the most common natural hazard damage claim in Aotearoa, following years of increasingly severe storms and heavy rainfall across the country.
Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake says it has received nearly 13,000 claims for landslide damage over the past five years — more than four times the number recorded during the previous five-year period.
The sharp rise reflects growing concern about the impact of climate-driven weather events on homes, infrastructure and communities, particularly in areas built on or near unstable slopes.
Chief Executive Tina Mitchell says landslides can happen with little warning and, in some cases, place lives at risk as well as causing major damage to homes and property.
The commission says more intense and frequent storms are increasing pressure on already vulnerable landscapes, with communities across the country facing greater exposure to slips, erosion and flooding.
Homeowners living near hillsides and retaining walls are being urged to watch for early warning signs such as cracks in the ground, leaning structures or visible land movement after heavy rain.
The commission says regular maintenance, good drainage and early advice from geotechnical experts can help reduce risks and strengthen properties before major damage occurs.
Officials are also encouraging homeowners to better understand what their insurance policies cover, particularly around land damage and accessways such as long driveways, where coverage may be limited.
Under the national natural hazards scheme, insured homeowners can receive up to $300,000 plus GST for damage caused by hazards including landslides, earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic activity.
However, limits apply to land damage coverage, which in many cases only extends to the immediate area surrounding a home.
The Natural Hazards Commission says understanding those limitations is important so whānau can make informed decisions about protecting their homes and planning for future risks.
Potential homebuyers are also being advised to check the Natural Hazards Portal for previous landslide or hazard claims linked to a property before purchasing.
The warning comes as climate scientists continue to caution that extreme rainfall and weather events are likely to become more common as climate change intensifies across the region.
Communities in Northland, Tairāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay and other areas affected by recent storms have already experienced widespread slips and infrastructure damage in recent years, raising ongoing concerns about resilience and preparedness.
