NZ to announce additional flood support as clean-up work begins

The New Zealand government has announced additional funds to help rebuild flood-ravaged Auckland and other areas in the upper North Island, while residents of the country’s second-largest city begin the clean-up effort.

Auckland and much of New Zealand’s upper North Island have been hit by record rainfall over the past week, exacerbated at least in part by climate change.

Four people died in floods and landslides that closed roads, cut off communities and damaged homes, farms and businesses.

“The most important thing we need to do now is to support people at this immediate time,” Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said on Thursday.

“Of course the government will continue to evaluate how best we can support people whose lives have been turned upside down.”

The worst of the rain has passed in Auckland, although some showers are expected Thursday afternoon, according to the MetService weather service. However, rain warnings are still in place for the regions southeast of Auckland.

“Rain falling on already soaked ground will accumulate faster and impact/delays can be expected in heavy rain,” MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris said in a statement.

People in the city of 1.6 million are being asked to stay away from the sea and flooding for fear of contamination. Elevators are out of service in 200 high-rise buildings, posing challenges for residents.

Evacuation centers remain open across the city. Summers in New Zealand usually bring some rain but the region experiences the La Nina weather system which can bring much heavier rain to the upper North Island.

The additional funding totals NZ$700,000 (AUD$640,000).