A joint Mayoral Relief Fund has been set up by Wairarapa’s three mayors to respond to Cyclone Gabrielle’s impact on the region, while a separate fund had been set up for the Tararua District.
The district councils for Masterton, Carterton, and South Wairarapa are in the process of deciding how to administer the support and manage funding contributions.
Those wanting to donate to the fund to support people affected by the cyclone can transfer money to Masterton District Council’s Westpac account, 03-0687-0271682-03, using the reference ‘WAISTORM’.
Criteria and distribution processes for the fund will be established by councils in partnership with agencies such as the East Coast Rural Support Trust.
Funding applications will be open to anyone across Wairarapa impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Masterton Mayor Gary Caffell said he was impressed with how resilient impacted communities had been.
“Community really is the backbone of Wairarapa. To see people pull together to help each other out, and be so generous with their time and resources was really heartening.
“I hope this fund can bolster the help already provided so generously by so many and make a real impact on those who need it most.”
Carterton Mayor Ron Mark said he supported the establishment of a fund for the purpose of providing humanitarian aid and relief.
He said people had been devastated by the cyclone, and having a fund would provide some relief.
“The determination as to where the priorities are, and who will receive funding, will be made by the three mayors based on the cyclone’s impact and the needs of our local communities.”
He said people can have confidence donated funds will be used fairly, wisely, and impartially.
South Wairarapa Mayor Martin Connelly said donating money is one of the best ways to assist in the aftermath.
“When our neighbours are in need, we look for ways to help out.
“Donating to a Mayoral Relief Fund guarantees that 100 per cent of your donation goes where you intend it to go.”
Neither the eligibility criteria nor the application process have been finalised but will be posted on Masterton, Carterton, and South Wairarapa District Council websites when they are.
Further north, the Tararua District Council has also set up a Mayoral Relief Fund to help communities find their feet after the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Tararua Mayor Tracey Collis said financial donations are most useful as they help to provide what is really needed to those affected.
“It will take a lot for affected communities to recover, and every little donation will help.”
Those wanting to donate to the Tararua Mayoral Relief Fund can do so by direct deposit into the Tararua District Council’s account, 03-0614-0088406-01, with the reference code of either ‘560’ or ‘Flood Relief’.
