During January and February 2023, Wairarapa was hit by two cyclones – Hale and Gabrielle, that impacted rural communities along the south and east coasts of the region.

The cyclones caused severe flooding and slips, with several communities cut off and families in the Tinui area evacuating their homes.

Following the initial response to the cyclones, a longer term recovery programme was established, involving local councils, support agencies and organisations in the rural sector. Along with coordinating efforts across these organisations, the recovery programme has assisted in securing funding to support families and communities that were impacted.

It is also working with agencies and local communities on ways to better prepare for and better recover from future emergency events. This includes establishing community hubs in locations across the region.