What is an NZRT?
New Zealand Response Teams (NZRTs) are teams of skilled, qualified volunteer first responders who provide support to communities and Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups during and after emergencies. NZRTs operate across New Zealand, offering surge support to emergency services and other responding agencies, particularly in large-scale events.
What types of tasks do NZRTs perform?
NZRTs can be activated for a wide range of tasks, including:
- Gathering information to assess the impact of an emergency
- Assisting with evacuations, security, cordons, and traffic control
- Incident management and communications
- Providing first aid and medical support
- Sharing public advice, messages, and warnings
- Rescuing trapped or injured people
What kind of training do NZRT members receive?
NZRTs train to nationally recognized standards set by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Teams are assessed by NEMA every three years to ensure they meet the required skill levels. Training topics include:
- Advanced First Aid
- Emergency driving and 4WD
- Radio and Communications
- Swift Water rescue
- Rope Rescues
- USAR Light Rescue
What are the different capability strands NZRTs can specialize in?
In addition to Foundation skills (compulsory for all teams), NZRTs can specialize in various elective strands based on local needs and risks. These elective capabilities include:
- Light Rescue
- Flood Response
- Storm Response
- Civil Defence Centres and Welfare
- Swift Water Rescue
- Rope Rescue
- Mass Casualty Support
- Out-of-Region Deployment
- USAR First Responder
- Light USAR
How is my local NZRT governed?
Local NZRTs are owned and supported by either Territorial Authorities or non-government organizations. The Coordinating Executive Group (CEG) for each team’s area plays a key role in local governance. The CEG endorses NZRTs for specific capabilities and ensures they are integrated into local response and recovery plans. Each NZRT also has its own internal governance arrangements and formal agreements (SLAs, MOUs, or contracts) with its owning organization.
How are NZRTs governed at the national level?
Two main groups govern NZRTs at the national level:
- NZRT Strategic Governance Group: This group sets the national vision and direction for NZRTs and approves accreditation criteria.
- NZRT Steering Group: This group advocates for NZRTs, provides accountability to national agencies, and works on national capability frameworks.
What are the minimum standards for NZRTs, and how are they determined?
Minimum standards are the competency requirements for NZRTs to be accredited in a specific capability strand. These standards are determined by the agency responsible for that discipline.
For example, FENZ sets the standards for USAR, while St John and the Ministry of Health set the standards for Mass Casualty Support.
Can I use previous training or experience to meet NZRT standards?
Yes, the NZRT recognizes assessed equivalents to unit standards, which means you may be able to use prior learning or experience to qualify. Accepted forms of equivalency include:
- Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)
- Assessment of Prior Learning (APL)
- Cross-credit (CC)
What is the minimum team size for deployment?
The minimum deployment size varies depending on the specific capability the team is being deployed for. Each strand has its own minimum number of qualified operational team members required for deployment. Non-operational and support staff are not included in this minimum number.
How can I find out more about NZRTs in my area or join a team?
To learn more about NZRTs in your area, contact your local Civil Defence Group. For information about Auckland Response Teams and joining a team in Auckland, contact [email protected].
