NEMA hosting to transfer to DIA in 2025

31 July 2025

The hosting responsibilities for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) will transfer from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) to the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) from 25 September 2025.

Following a Cabinet decision, this move aligns NEMA with a larger, more operationally focused organisation that is well-suited to provide the necessary corporate support to departmental agencies. The transfer is also consistent with long-standing Machinery of Government principles, ensuring agencies are hosted within entities that maximise efficiency and effectiveness.

DIA previously hosted NEMA's predecessor, the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management (MCDEM), until 2014. With its strong ties to communities and local government, groups critical in emergency preparedness and response, DIA is well-positioned to support NEMA.

This organisational change is designed to strengthen New Zealand’s ability to prepare for and respond to emergencies, by leveraging DIA’s operational focus and strong community connections.

Agencies are now working together on a smooth transition in the lead up to 25 September, at which time NEMA will continue to deliver its important functions from DIA.