Abstract:
Over the past decade, the cost of disasters on lives and livelihoods has significantly increased. However, few tools are available to measure the level of livelihood preparedness for disruptions caused by natural hazards. By studying the experience and perceptions of communities affected by the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake in New Zealand, this research aims to develop an assessment tool for measuring livelihood preparedness for unexpected disastrous events. A mixed-method approach was applied, combining a systematic review approach, a pilot study, and a survey of 140 individuals who lived through the 2016 earthquake in Kaikōura. Using t-tests, principal component analysis, and structural equation modelling, the results identified the structural relationships between the four indicators of livelihood preparedness, illustrated the importance of resource accessibility, and highlighted eleven critical factors for livelihood preparedness in Kaikōura. Access to livelihood infrastructure in Kaikōura was highlighted as the most vital factor for livelihood preparedness.
Additionally, through the application of a principal component analysis, factors influencing livelihood preparedness in Kaikōura were reduced to seven components, all of which influence different indicators of livelihood preparedness. A combination of results and discussion from these statistical instruments was applied to develop a framework for measuring livelihood preparedness. This framework could assist disaster risk reduction policymakers, business owners, and individuals to formulate new or improve existing strategies and initiatives for people to better prepare their livelihoods for future disruptions caused by disasters.