Factors, measures and options influencing post-disaster recovery from HIWeather events : a case study of two Auckland communities : a thesis by publication presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Construction – Disaster Management at School of the Built Environment, Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

Recovery is an experience that follows a disaster; however, this experience must be planned for, utilising practical factors, measures and options to address the challenges communities face in disaster recovery. This thesis examines key factors influencing recovery and resilience following the August 30-31, 2021, HIWeather (high-impact weather) event, which primarily resulted in flooding. Kumeū-Huapai and Henderson Valley in Auckland were selected as the case study communities using the Strategic Targeting Methodology (STM). The thesis focuses on factors influencing recovery, measures and options to address affected communities. The thesis integrates local knowledge and geospatial technologies to support decision-making, and investigates how communication, preparedness, social capital, governance, infrastructure, and access to resources shape post-disaster recovery. The research employed a mixed method multiple-case study approach, including scoping interviews (with recovery stakeholders and community members), high-level literature review, surveys, field reconnaissance, workshops, and public engagement sessions to explore factors influencing recovery and challenges faced following the August 2021 two-day flood event. A key contribution of this work was the design and development of the Community-centric Recovery Umbrella Approach (CcRUA). The CcRUA is a proactive, flexible, yet inclusive approach or framework designed to facilitate effective recovery and resilience at the local level. It fosters communication and collaboration with recovery authorities, keeping the community at the heart of recovery planning. Findings show that poor communication between communities and recovery authorities hindered recovery efforts, resulting in delayed recovery outcomes. The lack of clarity in communicating roles and responsibilities among recovery stakeholders led to confusion, resulting in frustrated residents. Despite these challenges, both communities demonstrated social capital, one more than the other, and a willingness to engage in recovery planning, highlighting the importance of fostering a partnership between community members and recovery authorities. The study explores the efficiency of using geospatial technologies and local knowledge to improve hazard mapping accuracy through community-led validation of flood boundaries to support decision-making. Furthermore, this research highlights the need for two-way communication, capacity-building initiatives, and clear definitions of recovery stakeholders’ (communities and recovery authorities) roles and responsibilities to enhance recovery efforts. Through these key factors, the needs of the community became apparent: clear, adequate, and timely communication; community involvement; a Community Recovery Plan; mitigation measures; effective warnings; alert systems; and building strong partnerships with recovery authorities to co-create recovery plans, strategies, and outcomes. The CcRUA aligns well with international, national, and regional policies such as the Sendai Framework 2015-2030, the National Disaster Resilience Strategy (NDRS), the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2022, and the Auckland Recovery Framework, operationalising their goals by integrating local knowledge through this approach. Although the findings are mainly case-specific, the CcRUA is a proactive micro-level approach that offers a scalable, adaptable model other communities can emulate. By addressing communication gaps, strengthening partnerships and collaboration, and prioritising resilience, this thesis can contribute to policy by offering an operational approach and actionable insights that bridge the gap between top-down and bottom-up recovery planning to build resilient communities.