From furniture and food, to helping with clean-up costs, 36 households and businesses affected by January’s severe weather event have received $205,300 in support from the Western Bay of Plenty District Mayoral Relief Fund.

Western Bay of Plenty Council released a statement on March 20, announcing the contribution.

Council said the fund opened with an initial $100,000 contribution from central government, allowing it to offer short-term financial assistance to those experiencing urgent, unmet needs directly linked to the storm.

“An additional $100,000 in government funding was later allocated to the fund, together with $5300 in donations from local businesses and individuals.”

A mix

Recipients were a mix of families, individuals, small business owners and small-scale orchardists from across the district, with payments ranging from $300 to $16,000, the council said.

Funding was available for temporary accommodation or emergency living costs, essential household items that were uninsured or immediately needed, urgent work to restore safe access to a property, and welfare‑related needs caused by displacement or safety concerns.

A slip in Ōmokoroa, Western Bay of Plenty. Photo / Sandra Conchie

It did not cover damage covered by insurance or EQC (Earthquake Commission), income‑related losses, general maintenance unrelated to the event, or large‑scale or long‑term property repairs.

Need greate

A total of 45 applications were made to the fund, for more than $800,000. While some of the smaller applications were fully funded, many only received a portion of what they requested.

“The need in our community is far greater than what we had available to distribute, but this fund has helped provide some immediate relief to those facing really tough circumstances,” Western Bay Mayor James Denyer said.

“Thanks to support from central government and generous local donations, we’ve been able to make a real difference for a number of people.

“We know recovery doesn’t end here, but this support has helped people take those first steps – whether that’s replacing essential belongings, or clearing silt and slash from their properties - and we’re continuing to look at what more can be done.”

Western Bay of Plenty District Council recovery manager Jo Lynskey said the council was working with more than 80 property owners affected by the January weather event.

“We are committed to doing what we can to support recovery, connecting people with the right information, services and support to help them get back on track,” Lynskey said.

‘Navigators’

She said the council had a team of specialised case managers, or “navigators”, who were working alongside those affected, providing personalised support and helping people understand their options.

Navigators connect people with a range of agencies and support services, including financial assistance, temporary accommodation, counselling and help with insurance claims, Lynskey said.

“They act as a single point of contact, guiding people through what can be a complex process, and making sure they aren’t bounced between agencies. Recovery will take time, but we remain focused on supporting people as they move forward.”

The Mayoral Relief Fund will be open for donations for another month. To donate, use Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s dedicated bank account: 01-0434-0180600-000. Particulars: Name of the donor. Reference: Donation.