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.

Cyclone Gabrielle

Our last recovery response

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

Eastern and coastal communities in Wairarapa were hit, with some communities experiencing severe flooding and slips, damage to farm equipment, pastures and fencing, and stock losses. Several communities were cut off, and damage in our rural sector saw some families evacuating their homes.

On this site you will find:

Financial support
Health and wellbeing support
How to contact your council

Te Whai Āwhina

Getting Support

Find out what financial and wellbeing support is currently available if you were affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.



Financial Support

Find out about grants available from Civil Defence.



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

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...

Major boost for recovery response

Feb 27, 2023

Communities near and far have shown their generosity, with healthy support being offered to Wairarapa recovery efforts in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle. The recently established Wairarapa Mayoral Relief Fund has seen donations start to arrive, with a recent healthy...