Mikael Frisell: "Kiwis need to be ready for a three-year crisis – the time for seriousness is now"
It's no ordinary Tuesday at the Civil Defence Agency. When I meet Mikael Frisell, the agency's Preparedness Director with over two decades of experience in crisis management, it's clear the situation is more serious than it has been in a long time. His message is crystal clear: we need to brace ourselves for a prolonged crisis – potentially up to three years – and preparation starts at home, in your own pantry.
– This isn't about causing panic, it's about waking up to reality. We're living in a new era, says Mikael Frisell, leaning forward across the meeting table.
Recent reports from overseas, with rising tensions in our region and ongoing global conflicts, have prompted the agency to sharpen its tone. Alongside the Defence Force, they're now issuing a joint call: Kiwis need to be able to look after themselves for at least a week – but really, it's about thinking long-term.
"Forget 72 hours – it's about three years now"
We used to talk about being prepared for three days. But according to Mikael Frisell, that's no longer enough. He points to fresh intelligence assessments circulating in security circles: a modern crisis is drawn out, wears you down, and impacts the whole community.
- Water and food: Aim for at least a fortnight's worth of non-perishable food and drinking water, but ideally, build up a supply that will last several months.
- Heating and power: Have backup options – a camping stove, lamps, batteries, and maybe a wood burner if you can.
- Medication and hygiene: Make sure you have extra of your prescription medicines, plus a well-stocked first aid kit.
- Staying informed: A battery-powered radio is a lifesaver when the internet goes down.
- Looking after kids and the elderly: Talk to your whānau, practice going without power, and check in on your neighbours.
– It might seem overwhelming, but just take it one step at a time. Next time you're at the supermarket, grab an extra bag of flour and a couple of bottles of water, says Mikael Frisell with a wry smile.
Community spirit will be key
One thing that strikes me as I listen to him is that our country's resilience really comes down to our connections with each other. Mikael Frisell says the agency is currently working to support neighbourhood groups and community associations in creating their own emergency plans.
– We can't be everywhere at once. It's your neighbour who will see if you need a hand, or you who notices the elderly person down the road hasn't put their light on for a couple of days. That's where true endurance is built.
Out on the street, I chat with a few locals who've already started thinking differently. "I bought a water container over the weekend, and a wind-up radio. It feels a bit surreal, but it's also good to be prepared," says a young mum. An older man walking his dog remembers the days of past uncertainties: "Back then, everyone had a cupboard with canned goods. We've let that slide, but now it's time to dust off that know-how."
What do you say to someone who thinks this is over the top?
– I get that feeling. It's comforting to think the worst won't happen. But the reality is, the world has changed quickly, and our job is to make sure Aotearoa stands strong no matter what comes our way. Being prepared isn't about being scared – it's about being resilient.
Mikael Frisell stands up and thanks me for the chat. He's off to a meeting with representatives from the food industry and energy sector. The work to make New Zealand more resilient is in full swing, both at an official level and in our own kitchens.
For those wanting to know more: The Civil Defence Agency has updated its website with practical checklists, and a national public awareness campaign is expected soon. Until then, Mikael Frisell's simple advice stands: "Start small, but start now."