Trish Clueard of Ngunguru marae says she was overwhelmed by the kindness of others when the marae received a $50,000 resilience grant from the New Zealand Disaster Fund. But after quickly setting to work gathering supplies, Ngunguru is now a model for other marae on how to better prepare for a disaster.

On the second anniversary of Cyclone Gabrielle, we’re proud to share how the generosity of New Zealanders has made a lasting impact in Hastings District. The support provided through the New Zealand Disaster Fund has not only helped communities recover but has helped them prepare for the next disaster.

Taranaki’s Disaster Welfare and Support Team leader reflects on responding to Cyclone Gabrielle, recruiting new team members, and making a home in Aotearoa.

Many of the homes in the small Hawke’s Bay community of Waiohiki have stayed in the same family for generations. Kiriana Laison is the fourth generation of her family to live in her home – her children are the fifth. The night flooding from Cyclone Gabrielle arrived, Kiriana was worried she had not only lost her home but her entire community – and her family. 

Update 15: A year after Cyclone Gabrielle and other severe weather events in early 2023 we’ve committed the entire New Zealand Disaster Fund to helping people and communities affected.