MEDIA RELEASE: RECOVERY TRANSITION PERIOD EXTENDED

25 March 2026

The Waipā and Ōtorohanga districts are extending their current Recovery Transition period for a further 28 days, following last month’s severe weather event.

The transition period was first put in place on Wednesday, February 25 following the lifting of the Civil Defence State of Emergency. The extension means Councils and recovery partners can continue to manage remaining recovery issues while longer-term arrangements are put in place.

While significant progress has been made, some issues are ongoing and require continued, co-ordinated support. These include:

• Damage affecting water infrastructure and ongoing water restrictions in Waipā
• Road and bridge restrictions across both districts
• Land instability
• Yellow-stickered homes in Ōtorohanga
• Access to affected sites for assessment and repair
• Ongoing work between councils and partner agencies to understand impacts and support recovery.

Waipā Mayor Mike Pettit said the extension is about making sure recovery work continues in a well-co-ordinated and practical way.

“We understand how challenging this period has been for everyone affected.

“This extension will help us stay connected to the immediate needs of our community and provide ongoing support where it’s needed most.”

Ōtorohanga Mayor Rodney Dow said both councils are working closely with each other, iwi, agencies, community groups and other partners to achieve recovery outcomes and support affected communities.

“Recovery is not a quick fix. Some people have lost all their possessions, and we have 116 people that can’t return home yet.  It’s going to take time as Councils and community work together to restore and rebuild.”

Mayoral Disaster Relief Funds have been set up to help those in the Waipā and Ōtorohanga communities who need immediate support following the February severe weather event.

For more information and to apply, visit:

Ōtorohanga District: Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund - Ōtorohanga District Council

Waipā District: Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund - Waipā District Council