The Government has announced the activation of the National Coordination Centre in the Beehive to coordinate assistance to the current flooding emergency.
Minister for Emergency Management, Kieran McAnulty said following the Mayor of Auckland’s state of emergency announcement, New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) would step up to help affected residents.
“I’d urge people to follow the advice of authorities and check Auckland Emergency Management for the latest information. As always, the Government is assisting as much as possible,” the Minister said.
“NEMA have been closely monitoring throughout the course of this event and we have now activated the National Coordination Centre in the Beehive to coordinate further assistance to the response.
“New Zealand Defence Force and NEMA have staff on the ground to help and further assess what more support can be given at this time,” he said.
Auckland Emergency Management has opened a Civil Defence Centre to assist those that have been displaced or need assistance following the severe weather. The centre is open now and is based at Saint Leonards Road School, 15 St. Leonards Road, Kelston.
Minister McAnulty and newly sworn-in Prime Minister, Chris Hipkins toured some of the worst hit areas of Auckland yesterday.
“After having been in Auckland with the PM and seeing first-hand the devastation, it has been really amazing to hear the stories of everyday kiwis getting out there and helping their community during a scary time,” said Mr McAnulty.
“We are here for you and we are allocating resources from across the counrry to assist Auckland in its response to this unbelievable weather event.
“We’ve still got the national coordination centre at Parliament running, NZDF and NEMA personnel are there and on the ground.”
The Minister also announced an initial $100,000 for the local Mayoral Relief Fund.
“Rest assured that there will be additional funding allocated once we have a better assessment of the full extent of the damage and its cost,” he said.
“We know it isn’t over yet, the weather is still looking changeable.
“I urge you all to stay safe, check in on your neighbours and reach out for help if needed.”
· If your life is at risk, phone 111
· If you need urgent accommodation assistance, phone 0800 22 22 00
· For welfare assistance, you can call the Ministry of Social Development on 0800 400 100
• To report flooding, damage to drains, or stormwater issues, please log you issue online at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/report-problem
Civil Defence Centres are operating around Auckland for those in urgent need of shelter. Remember to Bring with you any essential items you may need, e.g. medication, warm clothing, and baby items.
• St. Leonards Road School, 15 Saint Leonards Road, Kelston
• Massey University Albany Campus, Sir Neil Walters Lecture Theatre, Massey University East Precinct, Albany Expressway
• Manu Tukutuku, 32 Riverton Drive, Randwick Park.
