Help for those less mobile in Dunedin floods
4 November 2024
Sandra William’s South Dunedin home has been flooded before, but not like this.
Unlike 2015, this time when the water came in through the back door and into the kitchen, she didn’t have the mobility to help herself other than to lay down every towel in the house.
Unable to wear shoes due to an injured leg, unable to leave the house as a result, and with family unable to reach her through flooded roads, she only managed to doze a bit through the night as the floodwaters rose slowly.
Then, about 9 o’clock the next morning, a knock on the door. Those checking on those in flooded properties quickly realised Sandra needed help.
“They wouldn’t leave until I was sorted, and someone else came and put down sandbags to stop any more water coming in.”
Sandra was taken to Forsyth Barr Stadium, where New Zealand Red Cross Disaster Welfare and Support team volunteers were there with a warm smile and plenty of support, co-ordinating a Civil Defence welfare centre.
It was the first time she’d ever been evacuated and she admitted she had been “a wee bit upset” leaving her home. But when we talked to her the following day, still in the centre, she was full of praise for the help she’d received from Red Cross and other support services.
“I’ve been amazed at the help, and people checking on me. I’ve talked to a lot of people and had my leg rewrapped. I’ve had a good sleep.
“I woke up about 3.30am and got a hot drink. It’s been good.”
It was the third time Sandra’s house had flooded, located in a lower-lying part of South Dunedin, so she hadn’t been surprised by the events. Last time she’d been more mobile and able to take care of herself though.
A former accountant now pensioner, Sandra was feeling for everyone caught up in the latest floods – “there’s a lot of trauma out there” – but grateful for all the help she received.
Red Cross Disaster Welfare and Support Teams are based across New Zealand and are often requested by Civil Defence to help with needs assessments and other tasks in emergencies when a community is in need.
We are only able to respond to communities like these when in need because of our Disaster Response Alliance (NZ Post, Woolworths, The Warehouse, ASB) and New Zealand Red Cross supporters who ensure our DWST are fully equipped, trained and able to be deployed at a moment’s notice.
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Learn more about the Disaster Response Alliance, how it helps communities in an emergency and how you can become a partner.
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Many of our Disaster Welfare and Support Teams are on the lookout for new members.
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More information
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In an emergency, if your life is in immediate danger call 111.
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Lead photo: Help arrives for Sandra Williams.