Half of New Zealanders would not want to pay an extra $NZ200 ($182.55) in levies to better fund government insurer the Natural Hazards Commission, a survey has shown.  

About 30% of respondents to the Insurance Council of New Zealand study were willing to pay more, while 21% were unsure.

People with incomes above $NZ100,000 ($91,182) were most likely to back increased payments, while 39% of under-30s supported the move – the most for any age range.    

The findings come as the government considers increasing the NHC levy.

ICNZ CEO Kris Faafoi says the government, the NHC and insurers “all have a role to play in keeping premiums manageable. Balancing affordability with the sustainability of the NHC scheme is a shared challenge  

“We know it’s a difficult time for families, with the cost of living foremost in Kiwis’ minds as they manage their budgets. Taxes and levies already account for about 40% of a home premium.”

About 59% of survey respondents knew the NHC levy was part of their insurance premiums.  

Mr Faafoi says New Zealanders “appear to have a good understanding of the NHC and its role in helping fund the recovery when disaster strikes”.

He says the focus needs to be on ensuring risks are limited and insurance is accessible.  

“Kiwis value the protection insurance provides for their homes and families,” he said. “However, managing the rising risks from climate change requires a co-ordinated, nationwide response.  

“Government leadership is essential to invest in resilience measures like avoiding building in high-risk areas and strengthening infrastructure like flood protection schemes.”