Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ), in collaboration with Tairāwhiti Whenua Charitable Trust, has brought together more than 30 organisations and secured around $130,000 in funding and in-kind support to help East Coast farmers and whenua Māori landowners recover from January's severe weather event.
The initiative brings together industry partners, iwi organisations, community groups, rural service providers and volunteers to deliver practical support where it is needed most. With limited recovery assistance available to many affected farmers and whenua Māori landowners, the focus has been on connecting communities with resources, expertise and on-the-ground support.
The funding and support secured through the initiative will go directly towards recovery activities, including fencing materials, transport assistance, technical advice, wellbeing services and community support.
One example is the provision of 85 fencing material packs to help impacted farmers begin repairing damaged infrastructure. Industry partners have also contributed equipment, expertise, event infrastructure and volunteer support to help maximise the impact of recovery efforts.
Pania King, B+LNZ Mātanga Whenua Māori (Māori agribusiness extension specialist) for Te Tairāwhiti and Heretaunga, who has led the organisation's recovery support efforts in the region, says the initiative shows what can be achieved when people and organisations come together around a shared goal.
"One of the biggest strengths of our sector is the relationships that exist across rural communities. This initiative has brought together organisations that all share a commitment to supporting East Coast communities.
"By connecting people, resources and expertise, we've been able to leverage support that will have a much greater impact than any organisation could deliver on its own.
"It's been incredibly rewarding to see so many partners get behind the recovery effort and help ensure practical support reaches the farmers, whenua Māori landowners and whānau who need it most."
As part of the ongoing recovery effort, B+LNZ and Tairāwhiti Whenua Charitable Trust are hosting the East Coast Recovery Event on 31 July.
The free community event will provide access to agricultural and animal health advice, technology demonstrations, wellbeing services, children's activities and community support. Farmers, farm staff, whenua Māori representatives, whānau (families), kaumātua (respected elders), pakeke (adults), tamariki (children) and community members are all welcome.
East Cape Flood Relief Day (free)
- When: Friday 31 July, 10am to 4pm
- Where: Te Rimu Airstrip, 4450 Te Araroa Road, SH35, Te Araroa
The event hosted by B+LNZ will include farming and animal health advice, technology demonstrations, health and wellbeing services, activities for children, food and opportunities to connect with others involved in the region's recovery.
A huge thank you to all sponsors and partners.
A special thanks to Te Rimu Trust for providing the venue for this event.