Helping to clean up Hawkes Bay



The saying ‘many hands make light work’ is being put into practice in Hawkes Bay. Around 48 people, many of whom are currently on benefits, will help to clean up parts of the flood damaged region.

Approximately 120 farms in the Wairoa, Hastings, and Central Hawkes Bay have been affected by the heavy rainfall and flooding and urgently need some extra hands to help with the clean up effort.

Having seen the slips and flooding damage first-hand, I understand the scale of the problem for many of these farmers.

I am pleased that we have been able to offer further assistance to those farmers most affected. Myself and Social Development Minister Paula Bennett have approved up to $500,000 which will fund up to 48 jobseekers for 12 weeks work. This is part of Enhanced Taskforce Green which has been activated in response to the severe flooding.

Work can begin within two weeks, much of which will focus on clearing debris from fences and making repairs, as well as removing silt from properties.