MAYORAL DISASTER RELIEF FUND ACTIVATED FOR ŌTOROHANGA DISTRICT

Mayor Rodney Dow activated the Ōtorohanga Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund in response to the February 2026 severe weather event that impacted communities across the district. This decision was made to support those facing emotional and financial stress as a result of the event.

“Our community has been through a devastating time. This Fund is here to help those who need immediate support as they begin the recovery process," Mayor Dow says.

The Fund is intended as a last-resort measure, where other sources of assistance such as insurance or government welfare have been exhausted.

What the Fund may assist with: 

The Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund is intended to financially support affected individuals/families, community organisations, small businesses, and marae:  

• experiencing financial hardship caused by a natural disaster event  
• with basic needs, household goods and personal items (uninsured or underinsured)  
• with clearing debris from properties that are not insured or are underinsured with replacement of structures that are not insured or are underinsured  
• by assisting with insurance excess payments. 

Applications will be assessed against the Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund Panel by the four Elected Members on the Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund Panel. When a decision has been made, you will be advised of the result by email. In some circumstances you may be asked for further information, or you may receive approval for a portion of the amount you have applied for. 

How to apply

Application forms

• Fill out the application form here or visit Council to pick up a form.
• Applications must be submitted in writing.
• Completed applications can be emailed to [email protected] or brought into the Council office at 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga between 9.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday.
• For inquiries, please phone 0800 734 000 or 07 873 4000.

Donate to the Fund

We're seeking donations to the Fund so we can support more people in the community impacted by the February floods. 

• Contributions to the Fund can be made by Council, members of the public, businesses, or community organisations.
• This is about standing together as a district. Every contribution, big or small, will make a difference.

Donations can be made to:

Ōtorohanga District Council – Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund
Account number: 02-0392-0018241-003