Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited Gisborne today, assessing ongoing recovery efforts and the urgent need for long-term investment in a region still grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
During his visit to Tairāwhiti, Luxon took part in the construction of much-needed housing, with those on the East Coast concerned about long-term financial investment plans.
The region needs around 500 new homes to address the housing shortage exacerbated by the cyclone.
“We need long-term commitments to ensure sustainability and provide safe, affordable housing for families,” Annette Wehi from Toitū Housing said. “We need to know that once workers are brought in, there will be continued support.”
Luxon acknowledged the need for faster action and fewer regulations but did not offer new financial commitments. “Our job is to remove red tape to speed up the process and better utilise available land,” he stated.
Long-term commitments are also required to address the ongoing issue of forestry debris. The region has seen significant damage from Gabrielle, which left an estimated 200,000 tonnes of woody debris to be cleared.
With more than $30 million already spent on debris removal, an estimated quarter of the clean-up is complete. The region faces ongoing setbacks with every rainfall, leaving local authorities and ratepayers frustrated. More than 165,000 tonnes of woody debris have been cleared this year alone, but substantial work remains.
Last month, Minister of Forestry Todd McClay said in total the Government has funded more than $110 million to help with debris and sediment removal in Tairāwhiti.
Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz reiterated the need for long-term investments: “We’re talking about investments that will benefit our children and their children. We need government partnership and commitment to tackle these major infrastructure issues.”
