Storms that flooded parts of New Zealand’s Nelson and Bay of Plenty regions in April led to insured damage of $NZ46.2 million ($40 million), according to the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ).

The Nelson/Tasman district was worst hit, with insured costs of $NZ33.7 million ($29.2 million), evenly split between residential and business.

“Some areas of New Zealand have proved to be particularly susceptible to flooding, and there is a risk that with climate change they will become more vulnerable in the future,” ICNZ CEO Tim Grafton said.

“Insurers encourage communities, businesses and local government to plan and adapt in ways that will reduce the impact of natural disasters. This in turn will help keep insurance affordable for all and ensure a rapid recovery after disaster hits.”

Bay of Plenty costs were $NZ11.5 million ($10 million), including $NZ7.3 million ($6.3 million) of damage to residential property. Insured damage in the Waikato region totalled $NZ1 million ($866,000).