The Waitaki District has "adopted" the Far North, through an initiative launched to aid in the recovery of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Local Government New Zealand made the match through the newly formed Adopt a Community scheme, in response to the far-spread devastation across the North Island caused by the cyclone last week. 

Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher said the Far North District was a similar size to Waitaki, but had a population of around 74,000. 

The population covered a wide demographic - a lot of younger and older residents, but fewer who were middle-aged. There were some well-off communities but many others which had a high deprivation level.

The mayor, Moko Tepania, was elected last October, aged 31, and was “becoming a bit of a star”, Gary said.

“I’ve met him a couple of times since he was elected mayor last October.

“He is a very capable young man . . . and before the election, was a teacher. 

“I’m looking forward to working with Moko and his team over the next weeks and months as our council does what it can to assist their council.”

In a television appearance this week, Moko said a large proportion of the Far North remained without power and/or any means of communication.

Though some road access had been restored, the population was so wide-spread, access for some to the main centres was still very difficult.

In a social media post, Moko said he was “incredibly humbled” his district had been paired with the Waitaki, as well as, Waipā District, in the Waikato.

“A huge mihi to Gary Kircher and Susan O’Regan (Waipā Mayor) and their communities for putting their hands up to help. E mihi nui ana,” he said.

Gary hoped the Waitaki community could make a positive difference to the Far North community, especially those whose lives have been tipped upside down.

“Several councillors and I are working on some fundraising ideas and look forward to

Waitaki getting on board to help our northern friends,” he said.

Adopt a Community was a way for mayors, councils, and the community alike to reach out and provide support - community to community. 

Donations can be made to the Far North Mayoral Relief Fund.

Bank Number: 12 3244 0022509 04

Reference: MRF and Gabrielle.

Alternatively, cash donations were being received at the council offices on Ōamaru’s Thames St.

Donations can be made to the Far North Mayoral Relief Fund, bank number: 12 3244 0022509 04. Reference: MRF and Gabrielle.