A helping hand for Wairoa

A HELPING HAND FOR WAIROA

Thankfully cyclone Gabrielle has started to track away from New Zealand after leaving a trail of destruction across large parts of the nation’s North Island. On behalf of the Waimate District, my thoughts go out to all those affected and while I wish we could do more, every little bit helps for those in need.

That’s why we are centering our focus on the Wairoa District – a small, but resilient area in the Hawkes Bay region that remains isolated and cut off to the rest of the world. The Wairoa District is a similar size to the Waimate District, and I feel compelled to lend a helping hand.

In my years as Mayor, I’ve had a good working relationship with Wairoa District Mayor Craig Little, and we both understand how important our communities are, through the good times and the bad. Through the Mayoral Relief Fund, I’d like to kickstart a fundraising effort with a $1,000 donation, and encourage residents and businesses within the Waimate District to join me in lending a helping hand for the Wairoa District and their long road to recovery.

All donations can be made to the Waimate District Council bank account: 01 0893 0005000 00, and tagged MRF WAIROA. Donations must be received by midday on Friday 3 March.

Kia kaha Wairoa District (and North Island counterparts) – there are certainly better times ahead.

Craig Rowley
Waimate District Mayor