Taking care of people during Cyclone Gabrielle

The Team from Whangarei District Council

Civil Defence is all about looking after the welfare of our people. If you are in need of immediate help, please call us on 09-430-4200 for the latest information and advice.
If the storm makes it unsafe to stay in your home, there will be two types of places you can go.

1️⃣ Community led welfare centres
These can be established in local facilities including Marae and Halls. These are setup quickly by local communities as required and supported by Civil Defence.

There are two community-led welfare centres already operating for the homeless community of Whangarei: Terenga Paraoa Marae on Porowini Avenue (Central Whangarei) and 155 Whare Āwhina (Open Arms), at 155 Kamo Road.

2️⃣ Civil Defence Emergency Evacuation Centres
These are fully operated by Civil Defence, intended to shelter large numbers of people if necessary. We have prepared, but not opened, an evacuation centre at McKay Stadium in Kensington. It can be activated quickly if necessary.

We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support we can already see in the community. If you're safe and dry at home please check in on your neighbours too. Make sure you're prepared for a water outage or a power cut, have a flood plan, and think of indoor activities for kids.

🦺 Kia kaha community - come together and stand strong.

Photo: Our Emergency Operations Centre in the Council Chambers at Forum North (file photo from earlier this year)