In the wake of devastating flooding in late January the clean ups are continuing around Ōpoutere. Large slips closed State Highway 25 to the north and south of Ōpoutere, the Wharekawa, Tawatawa and Kapakapa waterways were in flood and the Wharekawa estuary now bears tonnes of silt and debris that has washed down the catchment. A rain gauge by Macbeths Road recorded over 900mm, other nearby readings range from 400mm-800mm over the storm period.

In recent weeks contractors have cleared several slips along Ōpoutere Road and geotechnical inspections have been carried out on unstable property. There is still significant risk of land movement due to the sheer volume of rain that fell in that January weather event, so caution is urged around sloping ground and large trees. Any serious concerns should be referred immediately to TCDC, ph 07 868 0200 or you can make a request for service on the TCDC website.

Caution is also recommended on the water – there are many unstable trees on the side of waterways and a lot of debris underwater that might not be visible to those in boats or kayaks.

Thanks to Fire Chief Jo Adams and the volunteer fire team who were out and about supervising road closures and doing safety checks during the storm. Special thanks also to Jen Staal who helmed the Community Response Group operations, checked on the neighbourhood and coordinated with TCDC personnel. Wharekawa Lodge opened its doors to refugees from the flooded campground, beds were offered to bach renters threatened by a slip, the Opoutere School hall sheltered stranded motorists, neighbours checked on neighbours, drains were unblocked and even the poor old jetty received some first aid after being knocked around by flood debris.

Hats off to the community for getting each other through the worst of it.

TCDC Mayoral Relief Fund Is Open

The Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund is open to Thames-Coromandel District Council residents, ratepayers or small business owners, and not-for-profit organisations who have suffered financial hardship because of damages caused by the weather event. 

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

It can be used to provide financial support for: 

• Cleaning debris from properties where people are uninsured or underinsured 
• Supporting individuals/families faced with hardships as a result of the emergency 
• Assisting small businesses impacted by the emergency 
• Assisting people with basic needs, household goods and personal items where the individual/family is uninsured or underinsured 
• Assisting with insurance excess payments 

The aim of the fund is to help towards alleviating the emotional and financial stress experienced by individuals and families as a result of the event. The fund provides one-off assistance for extraordinary circumstances, where a real need can be shown. 

The fund is a last resort measure when people have exhausted other appropriate sources such as Work and Income New Zealand, the Natural Hazards Commission and other government agencies. 

CLICK HERE to apply now

The closing date for applying to the fund is Friday 6 March 2026 

All applications will be assessed and available funds will be allocated proportionately to applicants that meet the criteria. The amount granted will depend on the circumstances of the applicant. 

Applications for assistance must be made in writing on the Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund application form highlighted above. Further information supporting the application may be requested. 

If you require assistance, please email funding@tcdc.govt.nz, call 07 868 0200 or drop into one of our Council service centres or public libraries.