Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund already helping those in need
Published on 12 March 2026
Applications to our Thames-Coromandel Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund have now closed but money raised has already started to help some in our communities recover.
On 21 January a State of Emergency was declared as a significant storm event hit our district, causing widespread flooding, slips and isolation. Many people were forced to evacuate.
The fund was created to help those in our communities suffering extraordinary circumstances due to the storm. Applications for the fund closed on 6 March 2026.
Just over $400,000 was raised in the relief fund thanks to the generosity of individuals, businesses and the Government. This includes an additional contribution of $100,000 announced last week from the National Emergency Management Agency.
We received 243 requests for assistance.
Some of the applicants worst affected have now received funding and our teams are busy working through the remaining applications. Due to the number of applicants, this may take time. Patience from any applicants who haven’t yet heard from our teams is appreciated.
An independent panel is assessing each application in batches, with a focus on prioritising individuals and families hardest hit.
While the fund will go some way to help people impacted by the storm event, the road to recovery is long. It will take time before our district can truly return to normal.
Support is also available and it’s okay to not feel okay. Information on how to get help, and latest updates on our Recovery efforts, can be found on our dedicated webpage www.tcdc.govt.nz/storm-recovery.