Support for Levin community hit by tornado

The Government contributed $100,000 to a Mayoral Relief Fund to help the Levin community following a tornado in the North Island town.

Minister for Emergency Management Kiri Allan said: “My thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by severe weather events in Levin and across the country.

“I know that this has caused considerable damage and been extremely disruptive to the Levin community. While it’s too early to know the full cost of the damage, this initial contribution will help ensure there is minimal delay in supporting those who need it. “I have been in touch with Horowhenua Mayor Bernie Wanden to offer the Government’s support, and want to thank everyone who has moved quickly to respond to this event and keep people safe.

“As the response moves into clean up and recovery, I encourage everyone in the region to continue to follow advice and instructions from Civil Defence and the Horowhenua District Council. Stay safe, don’t take any chances,” Allan added.

Mayoral Relief Funds are intended to help fill gaps quickly where an immediate need exists. It’s not a replacement for insurance and costs covered by other funding sources.

Insurance Australia Group and its brands AMI, State and NZI have provided support to customers.

“Today’s events, such as the tornado in Levin this morning, are a reminder of the destruction wild weather can bring, and our thoughts are with those who have had their lives disrupted as a result of the storm system today,” said Wayne Tippet, executive general manager, claims, IAG New Zealand.

“As of 12:30 pm Friday, we have received 100 claims across our brands, largely for damage sustained to homes and roofs. We expect this number to rise as the extent of the damage becomes clearer. As soon as it is safe to do so, we will deploy teams to affected areas to provide on the ground support to customers. With further bad weather forecast, our priority is assessing damage to broken windows and roofing, so people’s homes and businesses can be secured as quickly as possible.”

A total of 50 homes were damaged in the storm.