A helping hand for flood-hit districts

Our thoughts go out to all those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle, particularly our close neighbours at the Napier and Hastings District Councils.

The images of destruction and the suffering of the people in Hawke’s Bay and the East Coast are heartbreaking.

We’ve had lots of people contacting Council to ask how they can assist, with people wanting to donate goods such as clothes and bedding. While it’s a natural instinct to help, donated goods often don’t match what stricken communities need.

For people wanting to help with Cyclone Gabrielle relief, Taupō District Council has set up a community account for donations and put in a kick-start of $1000.

All donations can be made to the TDC Mayoral Relief Fund bank account: 02 0428 0220004 025, and tagged CYCLONE. You can do this either via online banking or at any BNZ branch, but not by eftpos. Donations must be received by midday on Friday 3 March. Every donation, whether $2 or $200, makes a difference.

Alternatively, the New Zealand Red Cross is appealing for donations to its special New Zealand disaster fund. Visit www.redcross.org.nz.

Making a donation is a loving and practical way everyone can help support our whānau affected by Cyclone Gabrielle and let them know other people and communities care about them. The money will in turn be transferred to Mayoral Relief Funds in the affected districts to be directed to wherever the greatest need is.

Kia kaha to our neighbours to the east – there are better times ahead.