In response to the recent storms impacting the upper South Island, life insurer Fidelity Life has introduced temporary premium waivers for customers in affected areas, including Marlborough’s Wairau-Awatere Ward and the Nelson-Tasman region.
The company announced that individuals experiencing financial distress due to these events can apply for a three-month suspension of their premiums, with the option to extend for an additional three months, without any lapse in coverage.
Bronwyn Kirwan (pictured), chief commercial officer at Fidelity Life, said the initiative is part of the company’s ongoing approach to supporting its policyholders through crisis periods.
“We know how tough it’s been for many New Zealanders hit by this extreme weather. Our hearts go out to everyone affected,” she said. “At Fidelity Life, being there for our customers means showing up when it matters most. Insurance is about peace of mind, especially when life feels uncertain. We hope this relief offer provides our customers with some breathing room, helping them keep their cover in place during these challenging times.”
Customers seeking assistance are encouraged to connect with their adviser or contact Fidelity Life directly. Additional information is available on the insurer’s website and adviser support channels.
This latest offer follows similar support measures introduced earlier in the year.
In May, Fidelity Life offered premium relief to policyholders in Canterbury impacted by storm activity. That scheme allowed for an initial three-month waiver, with the potential for an extension after review.
The company has also recently expanded drought-related relief for customers in regions experiencing prolonged dry conditions, such as Northland, Waikato, and Marlborough-Tasman. Eligible customers in these areas can access up to six months of premium waivers under that programme.
Following recent flooding and storm damage across several parts of the country, general insurance providers have activated support channels and begun assessing losses.
The Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ) has advised residents to begin clean-up operations where it is safe, while also stressing the importance of properly recording all damage.
ICNZ chief executive Kris Faafoi said that while it’s important to contact insurers promptly, safety should come first.
“While it’s important to contact your insurer as soon as you can, don’t wait to prevent further damage if it’s safe to do so,” he said.
In the Nelson-Tasman region, insurers have deployed representatives to the Motueka Recreation Centre to assist affected residents on the ground as part of a wider emergency response effort.
IAG New Zealand, which operates AMI, State, and NZI, has received 373 claims so far, with reports spanning residential, business, and vehicle insurance.
These include claims for water intrusion (101), wind damage (71), and flooding (54), along with other damage attributed to debris and tornadoes.
The Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman (IFSO) Scheme has issued updated guidance on how to navigate the claims process without complications.
Ombudsman Karen Stevens reminded policyholders to document everything before removing or disposing of damaged property.
“The most important thing is to put safety first, especially when properties have been flooded with contaminated water,” she said. “But when it’s safe to begin the clean-up, it’s essential to document everything before throwing items away. That means taking photos or videos of the damage and making a detailed list of what’s been affected.”
She added that policyholders should avoid undertaking any non-essential repairs without first consulting their insurer to ensure alignment on next steps.
