Taking care of people during Cyclone Gabrielle
Civil Defence is all about looking after the welfare of our people. If you are in need of immediate help, please call us on 09-430-4200 for the latest information and advice.
If the storm makes it unsafe to stay in your home, there will be two types of places you can go.
1️⃣ Community led welfare centres
These can be established in local facilities including Marae and Halls. These are setup quickly by local communities as required and supported by Civil Defence.
There are two community-led welfare centres already operating for the homeless community of Whangarei: Terenga Paraoa Marae on Porowini Avenue (Central Whangarei) and 155 Whare Āwhina (Open Arms), at 155 Kamo Road.
2️⃣ Civil Defence Emergency Evacuation Centres
These are fully operated by Civil Defence, intended to shelter large numbers of people if necessary. We have prepared, but not opened, an evacuation centre at McKay Stadium in Kensington. It can be activated quickly if necessary.
We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support we can already see in the community. If you're safe and dry at home please check in on your neighbours too. Make sure you're prepared for a water outage or a power cut, have a flood plan, and think of indoor activities for kids.
🦺 Kia kaha community - come together and stand strong.
Photo: Our Emergency Operations Centre in the Council Chambers at Forum North (file photo from earlier this year)
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.9% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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