Recent severe weather events across the North Island have prompted the government to announce a comprehensive support package for affected communities. The funding includes support for local councils, marae, rural communities, and displaced residents across Northland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, and Tairāwhiti/Gisborne.
We’ve summarized some of the support announced as at 1 February, 2026.
Government Funding Summary
Mayoral Relief Funds
The government allocated $1.2 million to Mayoral Relief Funds, with each of six affected Councils receiving an initial $100,000 contribution to kick-start local relief efforts:
- Tauranga City Council – $100,000
- Western Bay of Plenty District Council – $100,000
- Applications close February 15, 2026
- Thames-Coromandel District Council – $100,000
- Fund is now open for applications
- Website: www.tcdc.govt.nz
- Tairāwhiti/Gisborne District Council – $100,000
- Northland councils – $100,000
- Coromandel area – $100,000
Marae Emergency Response Fund – $1 million
$1 million was allocated to the Māori Development Fund to reimburse marae that provided welfare support during the January 20-23 weather events. At least 20 marae across five regions activated to support their communities with kai, shelter, power and essential support. Marae across Northland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, and Tairāwhiti can apply through their regional Te Puni Kōkiri office.
Rural Support – $200,000
An additional $200,000 was provided to Rural Support Trusts to support farmers and growers affected by flooding and landslips in Northland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, and Tairāwhiti.
- Contact: 0800 787 254
Temporary Accommodation Service
The government activated the Temporary Accommodation Service (TAS) through MBIE for people displaced by the weather events in the four affected regions.
- Website: www.tas.mbie.govt.nz
- Phone: 0508 754 163
Western Bay Emergency Response Fund
A joint initiative between Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, TECT, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council to support local organisations, marae, and charities.
Key Links for More Information:
- Tauranga: www.tauranga.govt.nz/mayoralrelieffund
- Thames-Coromandel: www.tcdc.govt.nz
- Te Puni Kōkiri for marae reimbursements: Contact regional offices
- Rural Support Trust: 0800 787 254
- Temporary Accommodation Service: www.tas.mbie.govt.nz or 0508 754 163
The government has indicated this is an initial package, with further support expected as ongoing needs are assessed.