In December 2025, AMI Insurance and FIRST72 deployed an AMI FIRST72 SMART EPOD® to Clevedon – fully equipping the Pōhutukawa Coast Community Response Team (PCCRT) to rapidly stand up a community welfare centre when severe weather or disaster strikes.
The EPOD, to be located at Clevedon Hall, gives the PCCRT everything they need to support townships and communities around the Pōhutukawa Coast when help can’t get through.
To celebrate the launch, AMI and FIRST72 hosted a Weather Wise pop-up alongside the Clevedon Village Farmers Market in March 2026 – with live demonstrations from the Pōhutukawa Coast response team, walkthroughs of the EPOD and other equipment, and practical advice on how to prepare for the first 72 hours of a major event. Five AMI FIRST72 grab bags were given away on the day.
AMI’s executive general manager, claims, Stephannie Ferris, said the partnership reflects a shared belief that New Zealand communities can do more to prepare for extreme weather.
“We know that communities who are prepared with the knowledge, skills, tools and networks can help hugely in the immediate aftermath of a major weather or natural hazard event. We’re delighted to support the Pōhutukawa Coast Community Response Team – a highly organised group of local residents motivated to support their community when needed. The company is proud to join with FIRST72, specialists in helping communities prepare for emergencies.”
AMI recognised the proven impact of FIRST72’s EPODs in events like Cyclone Gabrielle, where EPODs delivered to Wairoa marae and community groups became a lifeline when the region was cut off for weeks.
The Pōhutukawa Coast EPOD joins a growing network of FIRST72 EPODs across Aotearoa – enabling them be ready to look after themselves for the first three days of a major emergency.
Find out how our EPOD Emergency & Disaster Pods can build resilience and self-sufficiency in your community. Download our helpful guide.
