Exploring the role of search and rescue non-government organisations in emergency events: a systematic review in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

In response to the increasing frequency of emergency events in Aotearoa New Zealand, search and rescue non-government organisations have become more involved in civil defence emergency management activities. Despite this increased engagement, these organisations are not formally integrated into legislation, response training nor response planning. Through a systematic literature review, this study explored the involvement of non-government organisations in emergency events and focuses on their historical roles, current utilisation and potential future incorporation. Traditional core search and rescue functions involve mobilising community volunteers, fostering effective coordination between community and the official response and deploying highly skilled personnel as well as supplying specialised training and equipment that can be incorporated into a coordinated response effort. However, the findings of this study reveal the essential role non-government organisations play in events often goes beyond these core search and rescue functions. As the number of emergency events increases, the importance of understanding how these organisations can be better used is imperative to deliver collaborative approaches and the best outcomes for communities.