Forming a Team, Reflections from the First Auckland North DWST Meeting

On 9 July, the newly established Auckland North Disaster Welfare Support Team (DWST) held its first ever team meeting. This followed a strategic decision by New Zealand Red Cross to split the Auckland region into two DWST teams, North and South, recognising the scale, complexity, and risk profile of the region. It was the first time this approach had been taken.

The formation of a second team created both opportunity and responsibility. The Auckland North team was made up of seven existing DWST members and seventeen new recruits, bringing together people with different levels of experience, expectations, and familiarity with emergency response. The meeting marked the start of building a new team identity while remaining connected to the wider Auckland and national response system.

First meetings matter. They set tone, culture, and expectations. This session focused on establishing shared purpose, clarifying how the team fits within the broader emergency management system, and creating space for people to connect with one another. For new members, it was an introduction to what it means to be part of DWST. For experienced members, it was an opportunity to support, mentor, and help shape the next phase of the team.

What made the meeting particularly significant was the sense of possibility in the room. Creating a new team is not just an administrative change. It is an investment in capacity, readiness, and resilience. Smaller, more regionally focused teams can build stronger relationships, develop deeper local knowledge, and respond more effectively when activated.

The mix of experience within the team was a strength. Existing members brought operational insight and institutional knowledge, while new recruits contributed fresh perspectives and energy. Bringing these groups together early helped establish an environment where learning, support, and collaboration were valued from the outset.

From my perspective, this meeting reinforced the importance of intentional team formation. Effective emergency response depends not only on systems and plans, but on trust, clarity, and shared understanding built well before an event occurs. Taking the time to invest in people at the beginning pays dividends when conditions are challenging.

Being part of the establishment of Auckland North DWST was an exciting moment. It represented growth, adaptation, and a commitment to better supporting communities across the region. This is the kind of work I am motivated by, helping organisations navigate change, build capability, and create environments where people are prepared to step forward when it matters most.