Whakataka te hau ki te uru (Cease the winds from the west)

Whakataka te hau ki te tonga (Cease the winds from the south)

Kia mākinakina ki uta (Let the breeze blow over the land)

Kia mātaratara ki tai (Let the breeze blow over the ocean)

E hī ake ana te atakura (Let the red-tipped dawn come with)

He tio (A sharpened air)

He huka (A touch of frost)

He hauhū (A promise of a glorious day)

Tihei Mauri Ora! (Let there be life!)

Ka tuku aroha me ngā mihi whakamoemiti me te haumarutanga i roto i te aroha mai i Te Rōpū Mātai Hinengaro. The New Zealand Psychological Society (NZPsS) would like to send messages of aroha, blessings, and safety to all effected by the weather events we have been experiencing, particularly those in Northland.

We are aware that many have lost their homes and their livelihoods and would like to acknowledge how difficult this time is. The outstanding examples of community, tautoko and awhina everyone is demonstrating in these areas across the country has been profound. We would like to acknowledge our emergency responders, marae, frontline and iwi services for your tireless dedication to supporting our vast and diverse community needs, especially those in hard-to-reach regions. Your support in our communities cannot be regarded highly enough, and for this, we thank you.

As psychologists we are aware that these events can be anxiety provoking and remind everyone to call 1737 to access mental health services nationally. You can source all emergency and 24-hour mental health services via the 1737 link as needed. There are resources, including links to podcasts with useful advice on our website here: https://www.psychology.org.nz/public/climate-change and https://www.psychology.org.nz/public/community-resources/emergencies-and-trauma.

Significant weather events and climate emergencies can have ongoing psychological as well as physical impacts. We know that whānau and community connectedness are vital during these times, so please stay in touch with your loved ones and check in on your neighbours. We encourage everyone to follow the National Emergency Management Agency Weather Warnings, and to remain informed with regards to their key messages. Taking action to ensure readiness and preparedness during these times is both practical and can help manage feelings of anxiety.

Resources:

https://www.civildefence.govt.nz/

https://1737.org.nz

https://www.psychology.org.nz/public/climate-change

Kia haumaru tātou whānau!

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