Source: Auckland Council
Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) has officially begun the process to establish a dedicated Waiheke Response Team, marking a major step forward in enhancing emergency preparedness and supporting resilience for the community on Waiheke Island.
The new team will be made up of trained local volunteers who will serve as emergency responders when natural disasters, severe weather, or other emergencies happen. The initiative is being led by AEM with support from the Waiheke Local Board.
Recruitment for the Waiheke Response Team will begin in June, with the goal of having the team fully-formed, trained, and nationally accredited by the end of 2025.
“This is an exciting and important development for our Waiheke community,” says Adam Maggs, General Manager Auckland Emergency Management.
“We’re building this team from the ground up with the community at its heart. The Waiheke location brings unique challenges, and we’re focused on creating a reliable, well-trained group of local responders who can act quickly and confidently when it matters most.”
Volunteers will undergo training in comprehensive first aid, emergency response, rescue, communications, providing support to emergency services, and team coordination. The team will also be equipped with gear and supported through national-level accreditation under the New Zealand Response Team framework.
“Our aim is to make this a sustainable, community-led team that reflects the strength, spirit, and self-reliance of Waiheke,” says Alexis Reed, Senior Advisor – Volunteers, at Auckland Emergency Management.
“This is more than just training volunteers – it’s about building a culture of readiness and resilience on the island.”
Waiheke Local Board Chair Cath Handley welcomes the announcement, saying:
“The board is delighted to see the creation of the Waiheke Response Team underway. We look forward to having a fully-accredited team in place within a year, ready to support our community in times of need. I strongly encourage people with the right skills and a passion for helping others to consider putting themselves forward when recruitment begins.”
“This initiative marks a significant step forward in building local resilience and ensuring the Waiheke community is well-supported in times of need.”
AEM will host a community information event on Saturday 14 June from 8am to 1pm at Ostend Market at the Ostend War Memorial Hall, 61-49 Ostend Road.
Residents interested in joining the Waiheke Response Team or learning more are encouraged to register their interest early by emailing aeminfo@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
About Auckland Emergency Management:
Auckland Emergency Management leads the region’s emergency planning, coordination, and response efforts. Through partnerships with local communities and emergency services, AEM works to ensure Auckland is prepared for, and resilient to, a wide range of hazards.
