Use daylight saving as an ’emergency reset’ – council agency

The clocks change at the end of the month, so it’s almost three years since the Auckland Anniversary floods and Cyclone Gabrielle saw residents face deluge after deluge.

Now, council body Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) has launched a new campaign urging Aucklanders to use daylight saving as their annual “emergency reset”.

Adam Maggs, Auckland Council’s general manager AEM, says being prepared doesn’t have to be complicated – and it makes all the difference.

“We can never be over prepared. Emergencies don’t send calendar invitations, they just show up, sometimes in the middle of the night. Having a plan and a kit ready means you and your whānau can stay safe and connected, no matter what comes your way.”

A campaign to kickstart preparedness

The campaign rolls out this spring. Its message: “losing” an hour to daylight saving is nothing compared to the time you’ll save by being prepared. The clocks go forward one hour at 2am on September 28, 2025.

Just as fire services advise residents to check smoke alarms, AEM is asking Aucklanders to check their emergency plans and kits.

Maggs says, with summer on the horizon, “the longer days and warmer weather bring BBQs, beach trips and sometimes wild storms, power cuts, or surprise emergencies. Just like sunscreen, having a plan protects you when circumstances suddenly heat up.”

He says we should take an hour to storm-proof your summer: “Your future self will thank you.”

How to be storm-ready

AEM says follow these three steps to be prepared for wild weather this summer:

Plan, check your kit

Start with the basics: does your household have a plan for how you’ll stay in touch, where you’ll meet if separated and what to do if the power, water, or internet suddenly disappears? If you do, great! Dust it off and update if needed.

Next, check your “shelter in place” emergency kit

Imagine hosting an unexpected three-day indoor camping trip; do you have what you need to stay safe and comfortable at home if you can’t go out?

Think water containers, non-perishable food, torches, batteries, first aid supplies, pet food, toilet paper, hand sanitiser, gas bottle and even a few games to keep the kids entertained when Netflix goes dark.

“We’re encouraging people to stay close to home if disaster strikes. A well-stocked kit is your safety net. It means you can shelter in place without being left high and dry,” says Maggs.

Don’t forget: the small stuff that makes a big difference

Yes, house fires still happen and no, that little red light doesn’t guarantee the battery works. While you’re at it, check your smoke alarms and make sure everyone knows the fire escape plan.

While you’re at it, do a quick sweep around your home:

• Clear gutters and drains
• Trim overhanging branches
• Secure outdoor furniture – nobody wants their trampoline paying a surprise visit to the neighbour’s place in a storm.

For more information, visit Auckland Emergency Management’s website.

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