On Oct. 4, the Buckland Community Centre in Pukekohe will host a new event aimed at strengthening local disaster preparedness.
The Community Emergency Response Expo, organised by the Buckland Community Response Team, will bring together insurance professionals, emergency services, and community groups to focus on readiness for natural disasters and severe weather events.
AMI Insurance is partnering with FIRST72, a specialist in emergency preparedness, to support the expo’s focus on practical readiness.
The AMI community team will be present at the event, offering attendees a chance to win one of 10 FIRST72 emergency grab bags.
These kits are designed to assist individuals and families during the first 72 hours after a disaster, containing items such as first aid supplies, water purification tools, and essential nutrition, all packed in a wet-dry bag for ease of use during evacuation.
Annette Purvis, executive manager of major events at AMI, commented on the company’s involvement.
“We know that communities who are prepared with the knowledge, skills, tools, and networks can help hugely in the immediate aftermath of a major weather or natural hazard event. So, it’s fantastic to get involved in helping people come together to think practically about how they can support each other best,” she said.
The expo will provide insurance professionals and community members with opportunities to observe and participate in live emergency response demonstrations.
Representatives from Auckland and Waikato Emergency Management, South Auckland Rescue, and other local response groups will be on hand to offer insights into emergency protocols and equipment.
The event will also include displays from emergency equipment suppliers and training sessions designed to build practical skills for disaster response.
FIRST72’s stall, supported by AMI Insurance, will highlight household and community preparedness strategies. Attendees can view examples of emergency kits, flood barriers, and communication tools, as well as learn about training options for establishing and maintaining community hubs.
FIRST72 said the importance of local preparedness has been underscored by recent events such as Cyclone Gabrielle, which demonstrated the need for communities to be able to operate independently in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
The Buckland expo aims to provide a platform for sharing knowledge and resources, with the insurance sector playing a key role in supporting these efforts.
The event is sponsored by Auckland Council and will include competitions, cash prizes, and activities for families.
Organisers encourage insurance professionals and community members alike to attend and engage in discussions on improving disaster readiness.
Event details:
The expo is expected to serve as a template for similar initiatives across New Zealand, highlighting the value of collaboration between the insurance industry, emergency services, and local communities in building resilience.
