Govt announces $1.2m for storm-hit regions as recovery response underway

The Government has announced $1.2 million in immediate recovery funding for regions affected by last week’s severe weather, as communities grapple with loss of life, displacement and widespread damage.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says the funding will be distributed through Mayoral Relief Funds to help meet urgent local needs, on top of annual Government contributions already made to those funds.

“The impact has been devastating for many people, particularly those who have tragically lost loved ones at Mount Maunganui, Welcome Bay and Warkworth,” Luxon says.

“Our priority is finding accommodation for those who have been displaced.”

The Prime Minister says around 500 people across the North Island remain displaced, with assessments ongoing. The Government has activated the Temporary Accommodation Service to support those needing short-term housing.

In addition to the $1.2m relief package, the Government will provide a further $1 million to reimburse marae that provided welfare support during the emergency response, allowing them to replenish supplies and build resilience.

“Marae have been exceptional in the way they have stepped up to help their communities, providing shelter, food and care to people in need,” Luxon says.

The Government says significant infrastructure damage is still being assessed, with State Highway 35 on the East Coast and State Highway 25 on the Coromandel among the worst affected. KiwiRail is also reviewing damage to rail lines, while supplies are being moved into isolated communities as slips are cleared.

Other support already available includes:

• Up to $700 million through the Natural Hazards Commission for eligible claims
• More than $700 million allocated by Waka Kotahi for emergency road repairs under the 2024–27 NLTF
• $7.2 million from the Ministry for the Environment for emergency waste clearance
• Rural support funding through the Ministry for Primary Industries

Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell says further assistance will be considered once damage assessments are complete.

“While this event is not on the scale of Cyclone Gabrielle in terms of the number of people affected, for those who have been affected the impact is significant,” Mitchell says.

Luxon also announced the appointment of Chris Penk as Associate Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery, tasked with coordinating the Government’s response.

He confirmed Cabinet will also receive advice on the potential scope of an independent government inquiry into the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park tragedy.

“I believe there is a strong case for an independent government inquiry,” Luxon says.
“Establishing the facts is not only what the families of those who lost their lives deserve, but also important to help ensure lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies in future.”