Category 3 property owners in Hastings can breathe a sigh of relief after being told they won't have to foot the bill for demolition costs in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
As the recovery effort dragged on late last year, the Hastings District Council told Category 3 residents it would be shouldering the cost as part of the voluntary buy-out process.
It was followed by a policy reversal last month as it revealed its plans to pass on the costs to affected residents, citing inconsistencies in its original buyout policy.
It was feared the Hastings District Council would reverse its initial decision to pay for East Coast residents whose properties were severely damaged in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
A welcome reprieve for residents
The atmosphere was tense as locals gathered outside the council building today, their placards lining the entrance, while the public gallery inside was filled with anticipation.
Councillors, faced with the decision of who should bear the financial responsibility of demolishing homes, witnessed a split show of hands.
Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst's decisive vote not to include the proposed amendment was met with public applause, providing a welcome reprieve for those in the midst of rebuilding.
After the decision residents expressed their gratitude for the mayor's decision, emphasising the positive impact it will have in the community.
Pakowhai resident Alastair Needes said he was stoked for the whole community.
"It was a really good win today, and props to the mayor for the deciding vote. She came through for the community," he said.
"I feel like she cares about us and them going back on their decision would have been a real let down."
Hazlehurst defended the decision, citing prior community consultations and asserting that, from her perspective, nothing had changed.
Government assistance sought
With the Hastings Council now contending with a debt exceeding $40 million, Hazlehurst said the council was in ongoing talks with the Government to help with the financial burden.
The council is seeking support to extend the cost partnership, specifically covering the expenses related to demolition work. Conversations with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and relevant ministers are deemed crucial for securing additional aid.
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell said the Government has responded but it’s a difficult situation.
“It's a hard one they’ve been working through, The reality is, the agreement between the Government and local authorities is that they are the land owner and they are responsible for the demolition or remediation of those properties,” he said.
Residents affected by the cyclone voiced their struggles and highlighted the emotional toll of the disaster.
Needes said he lost his home, all of his belongings, and his beloved pets in the cyclone.
"It takes a lot of doing, and I feel like some of those people in there today just don't understand," he said.
Despite the challenges, the decision is seen as a significant victory for affected residents.
Esk Valley resident Dan Gale was optimistic for the future.
"Hopefully, it's not the last; it's only the beginning," he said.
"There are a lot of issues that need to be addressed as we continue to rebuild our lives."
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