This funding will help in the clean-up, enable one-on-one mentoring support, and strengthen local connections through gatherings and events to support the region’s recovery.
New Zealand’s Rural Communities Minister Damien O’Connor has classified Cyclone Hale which caused significant flood damage across the Tairāwhiti, Gisborne District as a medium-scale adverse event, unlocking Government support for farmers and growers.
“We’re making up to $100,000 available to help coordinate efforts as farmers and growers recover from the heavy rain and subsequent flood damage across the Tairāwhiti region,” Damien O’Connor said.
“The effects of Cyclone Hale follow hard on the heels of other recent storm clean-ups in the region, compounding stresses for those involved.
“It’s important to help those farmers and growers now facing a big clean-up effort after the storm dumped over 200mm of rain over 24 hours in some parts of the district,” Damien O’Connor said.
The Ministry for Primary Industries will continue to work closely with adverse event networks and sector groups to monitor the storm’s impact and determine where the need is and how the funding will be allocated.
A state of emergency remains in place across the district and many roads remain closed.
“This funding will help in the clean-up, enable one-on-one mentoring support, and strengthen local connection through gatherings and events to support the region’s recovery,” Damien O’Connor said.
