New Zealanders can now receive official emergency alerts and severe weather warnings through the Govt.nz app, making it easier to access trusted information in one place.
The app’s new emergencies and hazards feature brings together official emergency alerts to help people keep themselves, their pets and their property safe.
Key features of the app available now:
- Personalised emergency alerts: access official emergency mobile alerts and severe weather warnings for the locations you care about;
- Store licences, IDs and qualifications in your digital wallet: Your wallet is available now to set up in the app. Digital credentials from accredited organisations and agencies are expected to be available from October 2026;
- Access services and get information: browse simplified, app-friendly government services and information by topic or life stage.
Users can choose the locations they want alerts for across New Zealand, making it easier to stay informed about places of interest.
If cellular networks are down or you’re out of coverage, the public can still receive notifications through Wi-Fi or satellite on supported devices and networks.
Alerts display in the app for as long as they’re active so you can refer back to the full message. Users can turn on push notifications to their phone’s lock screen or home screen.
The app also links to information on preparing for emergencies, including contact details for local Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups.
The app acts as an additional trusted channel alongside the existing MetService channels and the Emergency Management Alert (EMA) system.
Download the Govt.nz app from the Apple App store or Google Play store.
Read more about the feature at Govt.nz – The Govt.nz app.
