IAG New Zealand says the number of significant storm claims fell by more than half in the September-February period, to 2868 from 6712 a year earlier.

The drop reflects “relatively settled weather” over spring and summer, which had six significant storms, compared with seven the previous year.

Despite this, IAG says New Zealanders are feeling the mental toll of heavy rain, storms and other natural hazards such as earthquakes.

Research commissioned by IAG brands AMI, State and NZI shows more than half of New Zealanders have recently experienced anxiety about storms and heavy rain, while 43% are concerned about flooding.

AMI, State and NZI CEO Amanda Whiting says the research shows that in the past two years, natural hazards have affected 54% of New Zealanders, with 41% feeling adversely affected.

“It is troubling that New Zealanders feel worried about going to bed when it’s raining, or worry about their homes when storms, high winds and weather watches are issued,” she said.

“As we respond to these events, our customers often tell us about the psychological and emotional impact of wild weather, and the effect of being displaced or losing their home on their wellbeing. 

“These impacts can last far longer than physical damage and raise concerns about the ongoing wellbeing of affected communities.”

IAG outlined the research and the September-February claims tally in its latest Wild Weather Tracker, released today.

The tracker now includes all natural hazard claims, not just those related to bad weather.

It says New Zealanders experienced 14 natural hazard events in spring and summer. The six significant storms caused millions of dollars of damage, and a magnitude-5.7 quake hit the lower North Island and top of the South Island in early October.

IAG says the six storms made up 81% of all natural hazard claims received. One that caused flooding in Dunedin and the wider Otago region last October accounted for 37% of these claims.

Total hazard claims in the September-February period fell to 3536 from 7844 a year earlier.

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