After two failed attempts Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has finally visited Wairoa – more than a month after the town was hit by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Those who have lost their homes and have been staying at the marae said they were relieved he had finally made it, and glad they had not been forgotten about.
But they wanted more reassurance and support for the clean-up efforts and for accessing long-term accommodation.
While the prime minister was sitting down for lunch with some of Wairoa’s community, whānau finally had a chance to voice their concerns and explain what they had lost from Cyclone Gabrielle.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins and other ministers had lunch at the marae and listened to stories of the cyclone’s impact on residents.
Nevertheless, the community was glad Hipkins had finally made it to town. Trevor Mihaere wanted assurances on Wairoa’s infrastructure. Kuiwai West-Scott believes the government should be sending in more workers to help with the clean-up.
Earlier in the day Hipkins announced an emergency shipping route between Gisborne and Napier.
Credit: radionz.co.nz
