Tidal flooding risks
Extensive investigations and scientific modelling have been undertaken to identify properties on the east coast and in lower Kaipara Harbour areas that may be at risk of flooding from rising sea levels caused by either severe weather storm surge and/or climate change.
The Council is required by law to consider flood hazards and to put information about potential flooding risks on Land Information Memoranda (LIMs) and Project Information Memoranda (PIMs).
Generally, properties in low-lying areas, near major waterways or the harbour are affected.
In 2006, inundation flooding risk classifications were included on LIMs and PIMs of affected East Coast properties. At the 7 August 2008 Strategy and Community Committee meeting, similar recommendations were adopted for properties in the lower Kaipara Harbour area.
View the maps below to see the affected areas.
View East Coast Maps
View West Coast Maps
If your property is at risk of flooding from rising sea levels, the rules about building on and developing it may change. For example, minimum floor levels for any new buildings will have to be higher to provide adequate protection.
Recommended residential floor levels
Click here to view the recommended minimum residential floor levels for properties more than 50 metres from the mean high tide mark.
Properties less than 50 metres from the mean high tide mark along the open coast have additional issues should have a risk assessment carried out by an engineer qualified in this area.
Reports
To view the reports by Council’s environmental consultants Tonkin & Taylor and DHI Environmental see the link below or view them at any of our service centres.
View available reports
Frequently asked questions
Am I in danger?
Identifying flooding risk is a precautionary measure that is required by law. In most areas, the actual risk is relatively small.
In severe weather conditions, the weather service and civil defence provide advanced warnings to ensure personal safety.
Will this affect my property value?
Councils are required by law (Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, Building Act 2004) to provide any known information about potential flooding risks on both LIMs and PIMs. Providing this information gives owners and potential owners the opportunity to make good decisions about building on, developing or purchasing a property. However, it is market forces and the desirability of a property that will ultimately determine its value.
Will this increase the cost of developing my property?
To protect valuable property and possessions from potential flooding, it is likely there will be additional construction costs to raise the floor levels of new buildings. In the event of a flood, this will reduce the need for expensive repairs and replacement.
Generally, subdivision of properties is not encouraged in an inundation zone so there will be costs associated with obtaining consent to subdivide.
Will this affect my insurance?
Insurance companies take many factors into consideration and requirements will vary from property to property. We strongly recommend you discuss your insurance requirements with a broker or your provider.
