Hīkina Wairarapa

Wairarapa Recovery

Kia ora and welcome to the Hīkina Wairarapa – Wairarapa Recovery website. This site brings together information and resources for individuals and communities across Wairarapa impacted by natural hazards.

Check this site for information on:

Financial support
Health and wellbeing support
How to contact your council
Community hubs in your area

Cyclone Gabrielle

Our latest recovery response

Over the course of 12-13 February 2023, Wairarapa was struck by Cyclone Gabrielle, a tropical cyclone that caused widespread damate to regions across the North Island, with nine regional states of emergency.

Eastern and coastal communities in Wairarapa were hit, with some communities experiencing severe flooding and slips, stock losses, and damage to farm equipment, pastures and fencing. A number of famillies had to evacuate their homes, with some still unable to return.

A regional reponse to the cyclone saw councils, volunteers and a range of local organisations pull together to assist people and communities that were affected.

Get updates on the recovery effort

Te Whai Āwhina

Getting support

Living through and recovering from a disaster or emergency event can be challenging and stressful.

Find out what financial and wellbeing support is available to help you, your family or somoene you know.

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Financial support

Find out about grants available from Civil Defence.

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Health and wellbeing support

Anxiety is very common during an emergency event, see more about where to get support.

Ngā karere o te wā

Latest News

Council votes to enter FOSAL buy-out

Dec 15, 2023

Masterton District Council has voted to enter the Government’s Future of Severely Affected Land (FOSAL) voluntary buy-out programme for properties severely impacted by the North Island weather events in January and February.Under the FOSAL funding arrangement, the...

Mayoral Relief Funding reaching applicants fast

Mar 29, 2023

A total of $68,300 in grants from the Wairarapa Mayoral Relief Fund has now been allocated to seven applicants, with those in need urged to apply if they need financial help. Applications for Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment Business Support Grants are...

Rapid building assessments following Cyclone Gabrielle

Feb 27, 2023

Masterton District Council has carried out rapid building assessments in the Tinui area to determine whether buildings affected by Cyclone Gabrielle are safe to occupy. Tinui township and surrounding areas (including Castlepoint, Mataikona and Whakataki) have been...