Ruapehu District Council Civil Defence and partner agencies are now focused on welfare assessments and understanding community needs following the devastating flooding that impacted the Ōhura township and surrounding areas over the weekend.

Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton is encouraging residents and farmers to come forward and share what support they need.

“Yesterday the NZDF flew myself, Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell, Horizons Chair Nikki Riley and staff, and local iwi Ngati Haua over the impacted area and into Ohura township.

We were able to see firsthand the extent of the flooding in Ohura and on surrounding areas which was significant as well as talk to locals directly,” said Mayor Kirton.

“The community has been hit hard, and our priority is getting help to the people who need it.

Council staff supported by partner agencies are out in the community undertaking welfare checks and identifying needs. Anyone requiring assistance - whether for food, clothing, shelter, or other essentials - is encouraged to seek help.

I want to assure the community that we are not collecting information for compliance or follow-up action - we are here to support you. Please come forward and let us know what you need.

A community hui and BBQ has been organised for tomorrow Tuesday 21 April at the Ohura Hall to talk about the recovery process and what the plan is from here.

The BBQ will start outside the Ohura Hall at 1pm with the hui starting at 2pm.

Please come along, enjoy a hot sausage and bring your questions.”

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