Emergency Recovery Fund - January 2026 event

Submissions are now being accepted.

Emergency Recovery Fund 

Our Emergency Recovery Fund provides emergency financial support in response to major disasters that cause significant damage and disruption. 

The Emergency Recovery Fund has been activated to support the Hikurangi-Coastal ward in response to the severe weather event which happened between 18 and 24 January 2026. The fund is only available to those affected by the severe weather in January 2026 in the Hikurangi-Coastal Ward of the Whangārei District as well as Ngaiotonga, Rawhiti, and Whangamumu areas of the Far North District.

This is a “last option” fund, for people who have exhausted other sources of funding such as Civil Defence, the Ministry of Social Development, Work and Income, Ministry for Primary Industries, and private insurance. 

What the funds can be used for 

Disaster relief funds may be used to support and meet the needs of affected individuals, families, community organisations, small businesses and marae. 

Examples of how disaster relief funds can be used: 

  • dealing with septic tank overflow 
  • filling water tanks 
  • clearing debris from properties 
  • supporting individuals / families faced with hardships as a result of the emergency 
  • assisting small businesses impacted by the emergency where appropriate 
  • koha to a team or individual who assist in clean up at their expense – for example a local rugby team that helps out 
  • refreshments for organisations or individuals who help with clean up 
  • replacement of items that cannot be insured – for example fences, footpaths etc. 
  • assisting people with basic needs, clothes, bedding etc where the individual / family does not have the capacity to buy their own insurance cover. 

How much can be requested 

As a guide, we expect most applications to be up to $2,000 for individuals / households, or $5,000 for community groups and businesses, per emergency event. However, we will consider larger grants in special circumstances.  

Apply to the Emergency Recovery Fund   

Step 1.Check criteria 

The following groups located in the in the Hikurangi-Coastal Ward of the Whangārei District as well as Ngaiotonga, Rawhiti, and Whangamumu areas of the Far North District can apply: 

  • individuals 
  • households 
  • families / whanau 
  • local community organisations and groups 
  • local businesses. 

Public or government entities are not eligible from this fund. 

Step 2.Gather information 

Please provide the following with your application: 

  • Proof of bank account (this can be a screen shot from internet banking; it must show the account number and account name) 
  • Photos of damage (where relevant) 
  • Proof of name and address (such as a bank statement addressed to you)
  • Evidence of costs being claimed for may be required (such as an email estimate from a tradesperson, or materials from an online store). 

We may ask you for additional information to support your request.  

Step 3.Complete application 

Fill in our online form and upload any supporting information using the links above.

Step 4.Assessment 

Staff will assess your application and will be in contact if any further information or a site visit is needed. 

Providing proof of need, such as photos of damage / impact or quotes for repairs may be required. 

Applications will be considered based on immediate recognised need in each community and household. 

Consideration will be given to: 

  • damage to a house or property 
  • level of damage caused by the event (this fund doesn’t cover general wear and tear or everyday household costs) 
  • if you have already accessed funds from other places or if other funds can be accessed to assist you 

You can expect to receive a decision on your application within fourteen days.  

 

Contact us 

If you have any questions about this Fund, or need assistance to apply, please contact us: 

0800 932 463 

funding@wdc.govt.nz