“It is still too early to understand the full impact of this blaze, but we want to ensure there is minimal delay in supporting those worst affected.”
Those were the words of Minister for Emergency Management Kiri Allan when she revealed that the government would be contributing $20,000 to the Mayoral relief fund that had been set up by Far North Mayor John Carter in response to the 2,400-hectare Waiharara fire that started on December 18.
On Wednesday, two and a half weeks since the blaze began, 55 firefighters were on-site to make sure the fire’s containment lines were not breached. According to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, the firefighters were supported by four helicopters and six dozers and diggers.
“When the fire first started,” explained incident controller John Sutton, “it stopped when it reached the grass. Now, the grass is much dryer, and could quickly burn if the fire reaches grass. So, it is important we protect the boundary between the fire line and the grass.
“Fire and Emergency personnel are working alongside personnel from Department of Conservation (DOC), New Zealand Defence Force, and forestry contractors.”
Meanwhile he thanked local orchardists and landowners for providing access to their irrigation water while also allowing the creation of access ways through their properties.
Mayor Carter, who has visited the fire ground multiple times with Councillor David Collard to liaise with emergency services and the community, said no homes had been destroyed by the blaze. That isn’t to say, however, that people have not been impacted.
The mayor stated: “The fire is the biggest in the region in more than a decade, and there have been reports of ash falling on properties up to 50km from the fire ground.
“While the full cost of the fire is still unknown, it is likely that there will be a range of financial impacts on people not just at Waiharara and Kaimaumau, but in nearby communities including Houhora and Rangiputa.”
At this point, Insurance Business is not aware of any insured loss estimates.
The relief fund, meanwhile, will enable people to donate money either online or at any ASB Bank branch by quoting account number 12 3244 0022509 04.
“We are incredibly grateful for the work of the fire service, helicopter pilots and support crews, Police, Civil Defence, DOC, the Kaimaumau Community Response Group, community volunteers, and Ngāi Takoto,” added Carter.
“A lot of people have worked for long hours in uncomfortable conditions at a time of year when they would normally be enjoying Christmas with their families. I and Deputy Mayor Ann Court will be looking into how we can recognise this extraordinary and selfless effort.”
Meanwhile, according to Minister Allan, her camp will continue to be in touch with the mayor.
She noted: “I have spoken to Far North Mayor John Carter about the effect the fires continue to have on residents and the wider community, and to offer the government’s support.
“My thoughts go out to all those who have had their Christmas-New Year break turned upside down, and I want to assure them that the government is committed to doing what it can to help get the community back on its feet.”
A grant from the relief fund can assist those who, for instance, do not have enough money to pay the excess on an insurance claim.
“While we are focussing on the most vulnerable at this stage, those who have suffered loss or damage should know the government will support them where it can and help this close-knit community get back to some normality as soon as possible,” Allan went on to say while also expressing gratitude for those with a role in the response.
“We will stay in contact with Mayor Carter to see what further assistance may be needed in the coming days.”
She declared: “I’d like to thank everyone involved – from the residents to the community leaders, the numerous agencies, and those on the ground – for their ongoing mahi in response to this emergency.
“This has been a very challenging event, but I’m proud of how well they have responded and supported each other during this tough time. I know many have had to sacrifice precious holiday time with whānau to support their community, and that is massively appreciated.”
Meanwhile Mayor Carter will donate to the fund himself and is inviting fellow mayors to contribute as well.
