Applications to the Thames-Coromandel Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund have now closed but money raised has already started to help the community recover, Thames-Coromandel District Council says.
The fund was opened to help those suffering extraordinary circumstances due to a significant storm event in January.
A state of emergency was declared for the district on January 21, as widespread flooding and slips forced many people to evacuate, with some areas being cut off.
Applications for the fund closed on 6 March.
“Just over $400,000 was available thanks to donations from individuals and businesses, and a grant from the government.
“This includes an additional contribution of $100,000 from the National Emergency Management Agency,” council said.
A council spokesperson said they had received 243 requests for assistance.
“Some of the applicants worst affected have now received funding and our teams are busy working through the remaining applications.
“Due to the number of applicants, this may take time. Patience from any applicants who haven’t yet heard from our teams is appreciated,” the spokesperson said.
An independent panel is assessing each application in batches, with a focus on prioritising individuals and families hardest hit.
“While the fund will go some way to help people impacted by the storm event, the road to recovery is long. It will take time before our district can truly return to normal.”
The council is also offering additional support, information on how to get help, and the latest updates on recovery efforts on its dedicated webpage www.tcdc.govt.nz/storm-recovery.
Meanwhile, the Hauraki District Council’s Mayoral Relief Fund closed on March 20, after extending its scope to include eligible businesses experiencing hardship from the storm.
Hauraki Mayor Toby Adams said he was disappointed to receive some fraudulent applications, and said the council had informed the police.
“One was very very blatant… he had a picture, he had a story, he had a quote from a group [but] something wasn’t quite adding up,” he said.
“It’s quite disappointing that they would try and take money from people in need.”
