Be ready for all kinds of hazards

Nelson Tasman Civil Defence and Emergency Management

Civil Defence is about the resilience of our communities. We assist families and businesses to be ready when disaster strikes. We make plans, so we are ready to respond to emergencies, lead the response to emergency events, and coordinate recovery afterwards. Learn more about us.

Latest News

  • Weather Update: 31 May 2026 - 31/05/2026 9:18pm

    Weather Update: 9:00 pm 31 May 2026
    Heavy rain expected for parts of Nelson Tasman.
    MetService New Zealand has updated the forecast for this evening, with an Orange Heavy Rain Warning and Yellow Heavy Rain Watch currently in place for our Region.
    There has been steady rain, especially in the Golden Bay area (over 200mm in the past 24 hours in the Anatoki area).
    The rainfall is looking to intensify into Monday. Thankfully, the chance of thunderstorms has reduced, but we do recommend people continue to take care around waterways (rivers and streams), especially if there is prolonged rainfall. Avoid any floodwaters, as they could contain hidden debris or be contaminated.
    With this volume of rainfall slips may occur, and driving conditions could be challenging. Please take care if you have to drive. Keep an eye on the road closures at:
    https://roadinfo.ramm.com/nz/roadclosuremap.html?region=nelson
    Heavy Rain Warning - Orange
    Period: 30hrs from 8pm Sun, 31 May - 2am Tue, 2 Jun
    Area: Tasman District northwest of Motueka
    Forecast: On top of the rain that has already fallen, expect 250 to 300 mm, but possibly more than 400 mm about the ranges. Peak rates of 20 to 30 mm/h, especially from Monday afternoon. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.
    Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.
    Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.
    Heavy Rain Warning - Orange
    Period: 32hrs from 8pm Sun, 31 May - 4am Tue, 2 Jun
    Area: Richmond and Bryant Ranges, including the Rai Valley
    Forecast: On top of what has already fallen, expect 250 to 300 mm. Peak rates of 15 to 25 mm/h, especially from Monday afternoon. Low chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.
    Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.
    Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.
    Heavy Rain Watch
    Period: 32hrs from 8pm Sun, 31 May - 4am Tue, 2 Jun
    Area: Parts of Nelson and Tasman Districts not covered by warnings
    Forecast: Periods of heavy rain, and amounts may approach warning criteria. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.
    Useful links are:
    https://www.tasman.govt.nz/my-region/environment/environmental-data/rainfall
    https://www.tasman.govt.nz/my-region/environment/environmental-data/river-flow/flow-report 

Get Ready at Work

  • Step 1: Prepare a workplace emergency plan for your business
  • Step 2: Get your staff ready
  • Step 3 : Get your business through

Get Ready @ Work

Get Ready at School

  • Step 1: Create an emergency management plan for your school
  • Step 2: Prepare students on what to do in an emergency
  • Step 3: Getting through and getting back on track

Get Ready @ School

Get Ready in the Community

  • Get to know your neighbours and community
  • Create a community-driven response plan
  • Become a emergency management volunteer

Get Ready @ Community

Get Ready at Home

  • Create a Household Emergency plan
  • Assemble & maintain emergency items
  • Get Connected

Get Ready @ Home