More than half of Kiwis have been directly affected by cyclones, storms and other natural events over the past two years

An Ipsos survey -- commissioned by insurance company IAG New Zealand -- has found more than 40-percent of people have been "adversely affected".

Weather-related insurance claims are highest in Otago, Auckland, Canterbury and Northland.

IAG Chief Executive Amanda Whiting says insurance pay-outs often aren't enough for the people affected.

She says the Government needs to take urgent steps to better manage natural hazards.