Fire and Emergency NZ Act 2017 — evacuation schemes
Fire evacuation schemes in New Zealand — obligations
Most commercial and multi-unit residential buildings must have a fire evacuation scheme approved by Fire and Emergency New Zealand. Here's what's required.
📋 Fire and Emergency NZ Act 2017 + Fire Safety and Evacuation of Buildings Regulations 2006
Which buildings need an evacuation scheme?
Most commercial and public buildings
An evacuation scheme is required for buildings that are:
- Used for any purpose where 10 or more people are regularly present
- Hospitals, aged care facilities, and other healthcare premises (regardless of size)
- High-rise buildings (over 10 metres or more than 3 storeys)
- Buildings where hazardous substances are stored
- Any building FENZ has directed to have a scheme
Ordinary residential homes generally do not need a formal evacuation scheme.
What must the scheme include?
- Floor plans showing exits, assembly points, fire extinguisher locations, and fire panel location
- Evacuation procedures — who does what, in what order
- Names and roles of wardens (and deputy wardens)
- Procedures for people with disabilities or mobility impairments
- Procedures for hazardous materials on site
- How FENZ will be called and given information on arrival
- A training and drill schedule
FENZ approval
Must be submitted to and approved by FENZ
The evacuation scheme must be submitted to Fire and Emergency NZ for approval. FENZ will review and may request changes. Once approved, it must be implemented immediately and reviewed at least every 2 years, or when there are significant changes to the building or its use.
Fire warden obligations
Trained wardens required
Wardens must be designated for each area and must be trained in their role — including: how to raise the alarm, how to check and clear their area, how to assist people with mobility impairments, the assembly point, and how to liaise with FENZ on arrival.
Deputy wardens must be designated for when the warden is absent.
Evacuation drills
At least every 6 months for most buildings
Most buildings with an approved scheme must conduct evacuation drills at least every 6 months. Drills must be documented — date, time taken, issues identified, and corrective actions. FENZ may attend unannounced to observe drills.
Source: Fire and Emergency NZ Act 2017; Fire Safety and Evacuation of Buildings Regulations 2006. FENZ:
fireandemergency.nz. This is general information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for the evacuation scheme?
The person who has management or control of the building — usually the building owner or the business occupying the premises. In a multi-tenancy building, the building owner is typically responsible for the scheme, while individual tenants may have additional obligations.
What if we change building layout or occupancy?
Any significant change to the building layout, use, or number of people must trigger a review and update of the evacuation scheme. An updated scheme must be resubmitted to FENZ if required.
Do we need a scheme for a home-based business?
Generally no, if it's a typical residential home. However, if clients regularly attend, or if employees work there, you may need to check with FENZ.
What happens if we don't have an approved scheme?
Operating without an approved evacuation scheme when one is required is an offence. FENZ can issue notices to comply and can prosecute for persistent non-compliance.