Hawke’s Bay to make $250k contribution to Canterbury Earthquake Relief Effort

Hastings District Council, Napier City Council and Hawke’s Bay Regional Council have set up a $250,000 fund, with up to $200,000 coming from the councils and $50,000 from elsewhere.

The Port of Napier has pledged $25,000 assistance and Unison Networks is also considering either technical or financial assistance.

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule says this is the largest earthquake since 1931 in terms of property damage and Hawke’s Bay people have a huge amount of empathy with what Canterbury is going through now.

“The nation rallied around us then, it is our turn to return the favour,” Mayor Yule says.

“While we are yet to work out the details on the final use of the money, it could be used as a cash grant, funding assistance for technical expertise, the coordination of Hawke’s Bay businesses who could be used in the recovery, or a combination of all three.

“I have communicated this message to Mayors Bob Parker, Ron Keating and Kelvin Coe. Mayor Parker has responded and is humbled by our recognition and support,” Mayor Yule says.

Hastings District Council has already made an offer to the councils of Selwyn, Waimakariri and Christchurch to send building inspectors, engineers and civil defence staff to help in the assessment and recovery of the region.

ENDS

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