The Government’s new Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Levy model went live on 1 July 2026, changing how the levy is calculated and which insurance policies it applies to.
As with all insurers, FMG collects the levy as part of clients’ premiums and passes it directly to Fire and Emergency New Zealand. The levy helps fund the services FENZ provides across Aotearoa New Zealand.
For many FMG clients, the impact will depend on the type of cover you have and the information we hold about your property, contents, vehicles or other insured assets. Some clients may see little change, some may see a reduction, and others may see an increase. For example, the new model includes updated rates and caps for residential property and contents, a flat levy for motor vehicles, and different treatment for non-residential and mixed-use property. Livestock and forestry are also now leviable.
To make sure we calculate each client’s levy correctly, we may contact clients before their policy renews to confirm or update key information. This could be by email or letter, with an email follow up 2-weeks later. We have a dedicated team working at pace to process the responses we receive, and we apologise for any inconvenience if you receive additional reminders.
We also appreciate the feedback clients have shared. We’re continuing to refine our emails and letters to make them clear, easy to read and simple to respond to. If you have questions, or would like further clarification, please contact your FMG representative or call us on 0800 366 466.
We’re aware of the Government’s review of FENZ’s long-term funding arrangements and the Insurance Council of New Zealand’s proposal for a Community Protection Levy, which FMG supports. While those wider conversations are important, our focus right now is on treating clients fairly while meeting our obligations under the current legislation. You can find more information on FMG’s FENZ Levy changes here and in Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s June 2026 Levy Guide.
