Hi John, 

The regions devastated by Cyclone Gabrielle are special to so many people, both here in New Zealand and abroad. We all want to support these communities to get back on their feet as soon as possible.

It’s been humbling to see so many already making donations and offers of assistance. Every little bit helps, but there is so much more needed. That’s why, this week I announced the new Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Fund. By chipping in, people here and around the world, can help our cyclone damaged regions to build back better, safer, and smarter. You can learn more about it or make a donation here.

We set this up to complement existing donation appeals. It will help to ensure that local and international donations are channelled back to the communities and projects that need them the most. This includes medium to long term recovery projects that help to build resilience for the future, as well as fixing the facilities where people come together, like sports clubs, marae or community halls.

Cyclone Gabrielle is the most significant weather event New Zealand has experienced this century. From Cape Reinga in the far north down to the Tararuas and the Wairarapa, the recent extreme weather has devastated so many communities. Lives, homes and businesses have been lost, and there is a long road ahead for many.

Our Government is focused on supporting and empowering local communities to rebuild in the way that works best for those communities. We’re committed to standing shoulder to shoulder with the affected regions as they recover – backing them to lead their local responses. The new Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Fund is just one way we’re making sure we do that. You can read more about other support we’ve put in place here.

This has been a traumatic event for so many people and businesses. I know that there’s many New Zealanders who continue to live in a great degree of uncertainty. As a Government, we will continue to support you – and we will get through this, together.

That’s it from me for now, but I’ll be back in touch soon. If you have any further questions on this announcement, or you’d like to chip in, you can find out more here. 

Thanks,
Chris