The impact of Cyclone Vaianu continues to be felt across affected electorates, with damaged roads, power outages, and disrupted communications putting pressure on communities already stretched by repeated severe weather events.
Cushla Tangaere Manuel says infrastructure across the region has taken another significant hit, with road closures, unstable terrain, and outages to power and internet services creating ongoing challenges for whānau and local businesses. In many areas, limited connectivity has made it harder to coordinate recovery efforts and maintain essential services.
The closure of key routes, including State Highway 2 through the Waioeka Gorge, is once again delivering a heavy economic blow. Estimates suggest the shutdown of this critical corridor is costing up to $8 million a day in lost GDP, as freight movements stall and access to markets is cut off. Local industries, particularly those reliant on transport and supply chains, are bearing the brunt of the disruption.
Businesses across the region are facing compounding losses, with each new closure adding to financial strain and uncertainty. For many, recovery timelines are being pushed further out as infrastructure repairs struggle to keep pace with recurring damage.
Amid the disruption, marae have once again stepped forward as centres of support, opening their doors to provide shelter, food, and coordination for those in need. Their role has been vital in ensuring communities remain connected and cared for during times of crisis.
There are increasing calls for formal recognition of this contribution, including systems of reimbursement or sustained funding support to ensure marae are not left to absorb the costs of emergency response. Many argue that marae are effectively operating as frontline civil defence hubs and should be resourced accordingly.
As recovery efforts continue, attention is turning to how infrastructure can be strengthened to withstand future events, and how community-led responses can be better supported. The repeated impact of severe weather is reinforcing the need for long-term solutions that protect both livelihoods and essential services.
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