arbiter
JournalsAccount

Why we see risk differently: Socioeconomic dimensions of climate hazard and risk perceptions in Auckland, New Zealand

Iresh Jayawardena et al.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction2026https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2026.106011article
ABDC A
Weight
0.41

Abstract

Climate-related natural hazards such as floods and landslides pose increasing risks to urban communities. Understanding how diverse individuals perceive these risks is essential for designing effective disaster risk reduction strategies. This study investigates the multidimensional nature of risk perception and its socioeconomic determinants in Henderson-Massey, Auckland—one of New Zealand’s most demographically varied urban regions. Drawing on survey data from 206 residents, the study constructs a five-part Risk Perception Index encompassing cognitive, emotional, experiential, coping, and social trust dimensions. Using Ordinary Least Squares and logistic regression models, the analysis explores how variables such as age, gender, education, income, ethnicity, housing tenure, and place attachment influence both overall and dimension-specific risk perceptions. Findings reveal that Māori and Pacific Islander respondents exhibit higher levels of cognitive awareness, emotional sensitivity, and coping intentions, yet report significantly lower trust in formal institutions. Income and education are positively associated with experiential and coping dimensions, while emotional distress is more prevalent among lower-income and female respondents. The study also identifies a risk perception paradox, where high exposure does not always translate into heightened concern or preparedness. By highlighting the differentiated nature of risk perception across social groups, this research contributes to the growing body of literature on urban climate vulnerability and provides actionable insights for policymakers. Tailored, culturally responsive risk communication and inclusive governance are critical to enhancing resilience in multi-ethnic urban settings. • Multi-dimensional Risk Index reveals uneven climate hazard perceptions among individuals • Māori and Pacific communities show strong coping yet low trust in institutions • Income reduces emotional risk concern but raises disaster experience exposure • Education and homeownership strengthen coping and preparedness capacity. • Highlights the need for equity-driven, co-produced disaster risk governance

2 citations

Open via your library →

Cite this paper

https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2026.106011

Or copy a formatted citation

@article{iresh2026,
  title        = {{Why we see risk differently: Socioeconomic dimensions of climate hazard and risk perceptions in Auckland, New Zealand}},
  author       = {Iresh Jayawardena et al.},
  journal      = {International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2026.106011},
}

Paste directly into BibTeX, Zotero, or your reference manager.

Flag this paper

Why we see risk differently: Socioeconomic dimensions of climate hazard and risk perceptions in Auckland, New Zealand

Flags are reviewed by the Arbiter methodology team within 5 business days.

Evidence weight

0.41

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.25 × 0.4 = 0.10
M · momentum0.55 × 0.15 = 0.08
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.