Still feeling the effects of last year’s weather events? You’re not alone.
A recent survey has found that 75 percent of people in affected areas in Wairarapa reporting ongoing property, financial, social and wellbeing impacts from the cyclones.
Run by the Wairarapa Recovery Office (WRO), the survey findings have been shared with government, rural sector and social service agencies to help target future resources and support at the areas of most need. These activities will build on the huge amount of work that’s already been done by those working on recovery efforts to support people and communities impacted by the cyclones.
Fencing and dam repair support
Outstanding fencing and dam repairs were a major issue highlighted by the survey. Over a third of respondents registered via the survey for a fencing repair scheme being coordinated by Rural Support Trust (RST). The scheme, which provides funded labour through dedicated fencing crews, is working through these requests.
A working group is scoping the outstanding dam repairs to see what support could be available. The group needs further information on the extent of the damage to progress this. If you have outstanding dam repairs please contact lauren.hale@mpi.govt.nz to discuss these details.
Wellbeing support
The survey also highlighted the considerable ongoing impact on relationships and wellbeing. RST has been providing ongoing support to individuals and families, and WRO has continued to fund RST’s rural nurse to offer health clinics at farming and community events.
RST and other agencies continue to rollout community events and workshops to help get people off farm for a break and provide wellbeing support.
Where to get help
If you need support for you, your family, employees or farm business, check out the options below and reach out for help if you need it.
Farm support
Rural Support Trust: can provide support or connect you to other agencies for financial or farm management support, mentoring or counselling. Contact wairarapateam@ruralsupport.org.nz or phone Wairarapa Area Coordinator Sarah Donaldson on 021 504 089.
MPI On Farm Support: for farm information or referral to specialist help. Email lauren.hale@mpi.govt.nz
Rural sector organisations: check out Federated Farmers, Beef+Lamb and other agencies’ Facebook pages for details of practical and financial workshops and events.
Talk to your rural banker, farm advisor and/or financial advisor or accountant.
Greater Wellington Regional Council: has a range of fencing support options. Talk to your environment restoration advisor or email info@gw.govt.nz
MSD: can help identify financial support you are entitled to: Phone 0800 559 009.
Rural employee support: phone 0800 694 121.
Wellbeing support
Free call or text 1737 anytime to talk to a trained counsellor.
Talk to your doctor or health improvement practitioner (wellbeing professional).
Call the Depression Line on 0800 111 757.
After hours support (charges apply):
Call Ka Ora rural telecare on 0800 252 672 or book online at kaora.co.nz
Contact Practice Plus on practiceplus.nz
Online support visit:
farmstrong.co.nz – rural wellbeing programme
smallsteps.org.nz – free online wellbeing tools
Visit whataboutyou.nz for details of other local and national support services.
