Two years after the fierce winds and heavy rains of Cyclone Gabrielle battered Auckland and much of New Zealand’s North Island, the scars of that storm are still visible but so are signs of strength, unity, and renewal.
Thanks to the generosity of Kiwis who supported a special Lotto draw held in March 2023, Auckland’s local communities are now receiving much-needed support. Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden announced that $1.8 million in grants has been distributed to 71 community organisations across Auckland, funding projects aimed at rebuilding, strengthening emergency services, and preparing for future climate risks.
“Cyclone Gabrielle caused devastating damage, tearing through homes, disrupting lives, and testing the spirit of our people,” van Velden said. “But this fund is helping rebuild what was lost and more importantly, helping to prepare communities for the challenges ahead.”
The funding was part of a larger $14.5 million relief package raised by the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust, set up by the government to distribute the Lotto-driven proceeds across cyclone-hit regions such as Northland, Waikato, East Coast, and Hawke’s Bay.
Rebuilding Safety and Self-Reliance
In Auckland, the grants are already making a difference. The Titirangi Volunteer Coastguard received $20,000 to replace critical rescue equipment, ensuring they stay mission-ready when marine emergencies strike again. The Karekare Surf Life Saving Club was awarded nearly $22,000 for vital search and rescue gear, protecting both lifeguards and beachgoers during dangerous weather.
Further inland, projects like the South Kaipara Good Food initiative benefited with $30,000 to boost local food security by installing water tanks, generators, and irrigation systems essential for rural resilience. The Bethells Beach Emergency Resilience Group also received funds to enhance their disaster response capabilities.
These efforts reflect the wide range of challenges post-disaster communities face from rebuilding physical infrastructure to securing food supplies and ensuring life-saving services remain operational.
A Nation-Wide Commitment
While Lotto’s contribution sparked this wave of community support, van Velden stressed that recovery was made possible by the collective effort of central government agencies, charities, corporate donors, mayoral relief funds, and local fundraising campaigns. “It was New Zealand pulling together, as we always do when times get tough,” she said.
Facing Future Storms with Confidence
Beyond immediate recovery, this funding is an investment in the future. As climate change fuels stronger and more frequent storms, Auckland’s communities are now better prepared with upgraded facilities, robust emergency networks, and improved environmental sustainability measures.
“The next storm will come but thanks to this effort, these communities will face it stronger, safer, and more ready than ever,” van Velden said.
By October 2024, all funds from the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust will have been fully distributed, closing this chapter in New Zealand’s disaster response history but leaving a lasting legacy of resilience and hope.