Cyclone recovery progress acknowledged

Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has acknowledged the progress of Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Gisborne District Council, and Auckland Council following the 2023 North Island Severe Weather Events. 

Mr Mitchell advised that as of the end of February 2025, Auckland, Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay councils have stabilised 1,125 slips and completed 51km of stopbanks.

Together, regional and central government have made a considerable difference for impacted communities, progressing projects that support their connectivity, future resilience, and provide for growth.

“Many of the flood mitigation projects are technically complex, and councils have taken time to plan and consult with impacted communities to balance the level of protection with minimising the impact on properties before deciding on the final design.

“Completing the flood mitigation projects, which are part funded by the councils, will reduce the risk of future flooding, allowing many impacted properties to move from Category 2C. This will mean many people can continue living on their property with greater confidence," said Mr Mitchell.

There is still more work to do, and councils remain committed to building resilience. As a regional sector, we are hard at work on initiatives to reduce the risk and cost of extreme weather events.