1 Jun 2023

Cyclone Gabrielle: 236 Hawkes Bay homes will not be rebuilt

From Midday Report, 12:15 pm on 1 June 2023

Hundreds of people whose homes were wrecked by Cyclone Gabrielle have just found out if they are going to be able to rebuild on their flood damaged property.

More than 200 homes in flood-hit Hawke's Bay will not be rebuilt and a further 2000 properties need upgraded storm protection.

The government has just announced it will work with councils to offer a voluntary buyout for owners of the most high risk residential properties those in in Category 3 and will co-fund flood protection work to protect Category 2 homes.

Sandra Hazlehurst is the mayor of Hastings, the area hardest hit by Cyclone Gabrielle.