Auckland tornado: Where to get help, how to claim insurance
Kia ora neighbours,
More than 1200 properties have been affected by a tornado that ripped through Papatoetoe, in south Auckland on Saturday.
Contractor Janesh Prasad, a diesel mechanic for a forklift business who was working at the South Auckland Freight Hub in Wiri, was killed during the freak event. Donations through a Givealittle page for Prasad's family have surpassed $48,000.
Another two people were injured in the tornado, while others have had to access emergency accommodation because their homes were left uninhabitable. The Government has pledged $100,000 towards a relief fund to help those impacted, and Civil Defence payments are available for those in need.
If you have been impacted by the tornado, need to make an insurance claim, or are wondering what support is available to you, click through these links.
Six tips for improving security around your home
1) Improve outdoor lighting
Ensure that streets, driveways, and front yards are well-lit. Motion-sensor lights around homes deter trespassers by reducing hiding spots and illuminating their movements.
2) Trim your trees
Overgrown shrubs and trees provide cover for intruders. Keeping them well-trimmed around windows and doors improves visibility and reduces potential hiding spots.
3) Secure Entry Points
Ensure doors, windows, and gates are always closed when you are away from the house. Upgrade to more secure locks, deadbolts, or even smart locks for added protection.
4) Add a security camera
Place security cameras in the main entry points to your home. Doorbell cameras are also relatively cheap and a great way to keep track of who is visiting your home when you aren't there.
5) Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
You could reach out to members on Neighbourly to form a group of neighbors who can regularly keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it. You could also check with Neighbourhood Support to see what is existing in your area.
6) Introduce yourself to your neighbours
The closer you are to your neighbors, the more likely they’ll notice when something unusual or suspicious is happening around your property
Feel free to share anything that you do around your area to deter crime.
Poll: Is dumping an issue in your neighbourhood?
There's nothing worse than strolling around the streets in your neighbourhood and seeing dumped rubbish.
Have you noticed this in your area? What could we do to combat this around the country?
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43.2% Yes, I've seen some illegal dumping
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56.2% No, our neighbourhood is pretty good
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0.6% Other - I'll share below
Poll: What special qualities should a 5-star New Zealand airport hotel at our largest international airport have?
Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s only 5-star airport hotel, given its incredibly close proximity to the airport, the convenience of walking to the airport is a major highlight but there are plenty of other features that make it special.
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5.2% Unmatched runway views with a private lounge
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46% Exceptional service from arrival to departure
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5.2% Gourmet dining featuring New Zealand's finest, celebrating Te Ao Māori kai
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36.1% A soundproof oasis with all desired amenities
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7.4% Māori culture reflected throughout, creating an architectural marvel