Building Community Resilience in West Auckland
The extreme weather events of the past few years, including the Anniversary Floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, have highlighted the urgent need for improved disaster readiness and response systems at every level. A study conducted in West Auckland on the response to these events, commissioned by Community Waitākere and supported by West Auckland Together, emphasized the need for community-level preparation, not just household and organizational readiness. The study highlighted the importance of developing local response groups that can inform and be supported by official organizations. This approach aligns with Auckland Emergency Management’s acknowledgment that, in disasters, immediate assistance primarily comes from neighbours, whānau, and local community groups, with their website encouraging a proactive approach to disaster scenarios.
A growing number of communities across Auckland and wider Aotearoa are taking these steps. Recognizing the power of community-led readiness, Community Waitākere launched the Community Resilience project, a grassroots initiative dedicated to fostering collective disaster preparedness in West Auckland. Led by Shalema Wanden-Hannay and supported by community groups, resilience organizations, Auckland Council, and Local Boards, the project empowers communities to take an active role in their own disaster response and recovery.
Over the past year, the project has engaged hundreds of residents through workshops, presentations, and mentoring. With a focus on hyper-local readiness, it has catalyzed the formation of seven new resilience groups and strengthened existing networks. These efforts ensure that in times of crisis, communities have the tools, knowledge, and support to act swiftly and effectively. Karekare, for example, had a resilience plan and network in place before the Anniversary Floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, demonstrating the effectiveness of pre-disaster preparation. Their readiness allowed them to coordinate resources, communicate efficiently, and support each other when external assistance was delayed, ensuring a more effective and community-led response. Through real-life insights from their response, participants have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of collective action and preparedness.
As the project moves forward, Community Waitākere remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. Community members and businesses are encouraged to get involved by hosting a presentation or joining a local resilience group. Those interested can contact Shalema Wanden-Hannay on shalema@communitywaitakere.org.nz. With ongoing support and collaboration, West Auckland can continue building a future where every street, neighborhood, and community is ready to face disasters together.
For more information on Local Board Emergency Readiness and Response plans in your local area—an excellent first step in getting involved—visit:
