16 (2026). Camilla Belich to the Minister of Defence

16 (2026). Camilla Belich to the Minister of Defence: How, if at all, has the role of the New Zealand Defence Force been expanded since the Government Inquiry into the Response to the North Island Severe Weather Events to better utilise specialist skills during significant civil defence emergencies?

Hon Judith Collins: The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) provides support as directed by the Government in response to domestic natural disasters and other emergencies resulting from geological and meteorological hazards. The NZDF maintains a contingency response plan to support any such requests and works with the relevant lead agency. The NZDF response plan is reviewed regularly and amended as required. Following Cyclone Gabrielle, the NZDF has focussed on enhanced coordination across its response personnel and liaison with Civil Defence Emergency Management groups.