Severe weather has swept across large parts of New Zealand this week, as an intense storm system delivered prolonged heavy rain, strong winds and widespread flooding across the North Island. Communities have faced road closures, power outages, evacuations and significant disruption as rivers overflowed and landslides cut off key transport routes.

Against this backdrop, ICMIF member MAS has reached out to its members to assure them that its claims team is ready to support anyone affected by this week’s severe weather events.

With heavy rain and flooding impacting communities across the country, MAS is encouraging members to prioritise their safety and reach out early if they need assistance.

Recognising the impact this event could be having on members, MAS’s General Insurance team sprang into action this week and prioritised calling members who were severely impacted by the 2023 Auckland Anniversary event and were identified as potentially needing early claims support.

Member feedback shows that this early contact from the claims team has helped reduce their uncertainty and allowed claims and support to be progressed sooner.

As of Friday 23 January, 58 claims had been lodged, with numbers expected to rise as members regain access to holiday properties. Of these claims, 59% relate to homes, 27% to contents, 7% to cars, boats or caravans, and 7% to business property, illustrating the wide-ranging impact of this week’s severe weather across residential, vehicle and commercial assets.

Jo McCauley, Chief Executive of MAS, says the organisation is focused on being there for members when they need it most saying: “We know weather events like this can be incredibly stressful. Our claims team are ready to support members through the process and help them access the assistance they need as quickly as possible.”

“We encourage any members who have been affected to get in touch with us as soon as possible. We’re here to guide you through your claim and answer any questions along the way,” McCauley concluded.