Te Tahua Toka Tū Moana - Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund

Te Tahua Toka Tū Moana – Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund provides emergency financial support for Far North communities affected by major disasters that have caused significant damage and disruption.

The fund has been activated in response to the severe weather event of 21 – 22 January 2026 and is available only to those affected in the Bay of Islands-Whangaroa ward of the Far North District.

This is a ‘last option’ fund for people who have already exhausted available support, such as Civil Defence, the Ministry of Social Development, MBIE Temporary Accommodation Services, Work and Income, Ministry for Primary Industries, and private insurance.

Who can apply

You may apply if you:

• were affected by the severe weather event of 21 – 22 January 2026
• live, operate, or own property in the Bay of Islands–Whangaroa ward
• have unmet needs that are not covered by other support agencies or insurance.

What the funds can be used for

Te Tahua Toka Tū Moana Funds may be used to support and meet the needs of affected individuals, whānau, community organisations, small businesses and marae.

Examples of how these funds can be used:

• dealing with septic tank overflow
• filling water tanks
• clearing debris from properties
• assisting small businesses impacted by the emergency (where appropriate)
• replacement of items that cannot be insured (for example accessways)
• assisting people with essential needs such as clothing and bedding etc., where the individual /whānau does not have the capacity to buy their own insurance cover.

How to apply

Step 1: Download and complete the application form

Step 2: Submit your completed form and supporting information by either:

• Email: recoverymanager@fndc.govt.nz
• In person: Drop your application at any Far North District Council service centre.

Applications close

5pm, Friday 6^th March 2026

If you have questions, contact: recoverymanager@fndc.govt.nz

If you applied to Whangārei District Council’s Emergency Recovery Fund

If you live in the Bay of Islands–Whangaroa ward and previously applied to Whangārei District Council’s Emergency Recovery Fund, you do not need to reapply to Te Tahua Toka Tū Moana – Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund. Your WDC application remains active and will be transferred to the Far North District Council recovery team for processing. This is simply an administrative change.