International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health Article Social Vulnerability Indicators for Flooding in Aotearoa New Zealand Kylie Mason * , Kirstin Lindberg, Carolin Haenfling, Allan Schori, Helene Marsters, Deborah Read and Barry Borman Environmental Health Intelligence New Zealand, College of Health, Massey University, P.O. Box 756, Wellington 6140, New Zealand;
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[email protected] Abstract: Social vulnerability indicators are a valuable tool for understanding which population groups are more vulnerable to experiencing negative impacts from disasters, and where these groups live, to inform disaster risk management activities. While many approaches have been used to measure social vulnerability to natural hazards, there is no single method or universally agreed approach. This paper proposes a novel approach to developing social vulnerability indicators, using the example of flooding in Aotearoa New Zealand. A conceptual framework was developed to guide selection of the social vulnerability indicators, based on previous frameworks (including the MOVE framework), consideration of climate change, and a holistic view of health and wellbeing. Using this framework, ten dimensions relating to social vulnerability were identified: exposure; children; Citation: Mason, K.; Lindberg, K.; older adults; health and disability status; money to cope with crises/losses; social connectedness; Haenfling, C.; Schori, A.; Marsters, H.; knowledge, skills and awareness of natural hazards; safe, secure and healthy housing; food and water Read, D.; Borman, B.