Community spirit alleviates pain

also set up to assist family and homeowners that were in desperate need of help. The fund had raised more than $40,000 and applications closed March 31.

Nineteen applications have been received.

Hauraki District Council Mayor John Tregidga said he was proud of the town’s strength.

‘‘The one positive thing among all the stress and trauma of a devastating event like this is the community spirit that often emerges, especially in smaller rural communities,’’ said Tregidga.

‘‘People opened up their homes and businesses, raised funds, and generally just rolled up their sleeves and chipped in where they could to help others. It was incredibly heartening to see.’’

The Hauraki District Council has also agreed to pay or waive up to $2000 in building consent fees for those at risk of flooding who wish to lift their buildings. The offer is open to all owners of affected properties in the Kaiaua Coast area.

The council has budgeted for approximately 10 consent applications per year.

Tidal surge from the January storm caused significant damage to approximately 12 homes, moderate damage to 72 homes, while 157 homes were mildly affected.

‘‘There are definitely some upcoming challenges for this community such as ongoing flooding and the effects of climate change and we need to work with the community, central government, and Waikato Regional Council to identify the best way to respond to these in the longer term,’’ said Tregidga.

‘‘While acknowledging that the after effects of this event are still very real and stressful for some people, overall I think the community is stronger than ever.’’