Those affected by last week's severe weather can now apply for Civil Defence payments.
The payments, announced by Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston, were available for those affected in specific areas of Northland, Bay of Plenty and East Coast to help cover emergency costs.
Last week's extreme weather caused significant damage across parts of the upper North Island, forcing some people out of their homes.
By the end of Thursday, those based in Rawhiti, Ngaiotonga, Bland Bay (Whangaruru North), Punaruku, Ōakura (Whangaruru South), Mokau, Helena Bay, Mimiwhangata, Whananaki, Waioweka Gorge, Hicks Bay, Te Araroa and have been impacted by the recent severe weather would be eligible for the payments.
The money was to help affected people pay for food, bedding, clothing, accommodation, or loss of livelihood.
“You don’t have to be on a benefit to qualify for a Civil Defence payment, and non-residents in these areas may be eligible," Upston said.
Anyone wanting to apply was encouraged to talk to someone from their local welfare team at any civil defence centre or call MSD on 0800 559 009.
Work and income service centres were also open and operating as normal.
“MSD regional teams continue to actively engage with Regional Public Service networks and Civil Defence Emergency Management as welfare assessments are undertaken and will continue to assess the need for Civil Defence payments in other impacted areas," Upston said.
“We’ll continue to support communities affected by this event."
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