The Tairāwhiti Emergency Management Office (TEMO) is the lead in bringing together a response for the region in time of strife – that could include after an earthquake or during a weather event or health response like COVID-19.

TEMO covers the four 'R's' – Reduction, Readiness, Response and Recover – and works alongside other organisations and stakeholders both in and out of the region. That includes Central Government, local iwi, the Police, FENZ and many others.

In ‘peacetime’ the TEMO team train others to ensure the region has readiness across its many communities and sets up hubs so those who are isolated can be self-sufficient during an emergency.

TEMO is based in the Regional Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) -Te Whare Manawa Whakarauora, which is located at 15 Potae Avenue in Lytton West, Gisborne. This is a modern purpose-built emergency facility that is built to an IL4 standard, with backup power, data and water. Opened on 13 September 2023, the ECC is located outside of the flood and tsunami zones which is vital given the role of the ECC.