Key Takeaways:
- A convoy of motorhomes is being deployed to Northland to provide temporary accommodation for those displaced by the severe weather.
- 10 motorhomes are being sent to the region today, with a further 50 to be deployed over the coming days.
- The motorhomes are being delivered through the Government’s Temporary Accommodation Service (TAS).
- The Government has also announced an initial package of $1.2 million to support affected regions with immediate and pressing needs.
- The package includes $1 million to reimburse marae that provided relief and to allow them to replenish.
Introduction to the Relief Efforts
A convoy of motorhomes is making its way to Northland to support those displaced by last week’s severe weather. The motorhomes are being delivered through the Government’s Temporary Accommodation Service (TAS), which was activated to support those displaced across Northland Te Tai Tokerau, the Coromandel, the Bay of Plenty, the East Coast Tairāwhiti, and other affected areas. Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka said that the motorhomes provide an immediate option for people who can’t stay in their homes, especially in affected areas where accommodation may be limited.
The Situation in Northland
Northland’s East Coast was hit hard by heavy rain last week, with a summer’s worth dumped on the region over a few hours on January 17 and 18. The rain washed out roads and bridges, leaving locals to wade through floodwaters. Slips and road damage left some communities stranded. Numerous properties were left damaged by the storm, with five properties in Whangārei red-stickered, meaning owners could not return, and another 10 yellow-stickered. The flooding has caused extensive damage to roads in Northland, leaving many without access to basic necessities.
The Government’s Response
The Government has responded quickly to the crisis, with the deployment of motorhomes being just one part of the relief efforts. Potaka praised marae, whānau, councils, and Iwi for their work to support people affected by the flooding. He also encouraged those who have been displaced to register with TAS as soon as possible, so that support can be put in place. The Government has also announced an initial package of $1.2 million to support affected regions with immediate and pressing needs, to be distributed through the Mayoral Relief Funds. The package also includes $1 million to reimburse marae that provided relief and to allow them to replenish.
The Role of the Temporary Accommodation Service
The Temporary Accommodation Service (TAS) is playing a crucial role in providing temporary accommodation for those displaced by the flooding. The service is being used to deliver the motorhomes to affected areas, and to provide other forms of temporary accommodation as needed. Potaka said that the motorhomes provide an immediate option for people who can’t stay in their homes, and that they will be deployed to other affected areas as needed. The TAS is also working with other government agencies and community organizations to provide support to those affected by the flooding.
The Impact of the Flooding
The flooding has had a significant impact on the communities affected, with many left without access to basic necessities. Hundreds are without power, and strong winds are adding to the anxiety as hazards increase with landslips and fallen trees. The flooding has also caused extensive damage to roads and properties, leaving many without a safe place to live. The deployment of motorhomes and other forms of temporary accommodation is a crucial part of the relief efforts, and will help to provide a safe and comfortable place for those affected to stay while they wait for their homes to be repaired or rebuilt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the deployment of motorhomes to Northland is a vital part of the relief efforts following the severe weather. The Government’s Temporary Accommodation Service is playing a crucial role in providing temporary accommodation for those displaced, and the initial package of $1.2 million will help to support affected regions with immediate and pressing needs. The situation in Northland is still dire, with many without access to basic necessities, but the relief efforts are underway and will help to provide support to those affected. It is essential for those who have been displaced to register with TAS as soon as possible, so that support can be put in place, and for the community to come together to support those in need.