A series of Tararua REAP Whānau Cyclone Events in cyclone-impacted communities have been welcomed by local teachers and parents.

Tararua Cyclone Social Recovery Lead Toni Chapman says REAP and other services have been visiting schools over the past few weeks at Weber, Pongoroa (including Makuri School), Kumeroa and this week at Norsewood.

The events have included Sport Manawatū (Sport Tararua) running training sessions and providing use of the Tararua District Play Trailer, Tararua Alliance have supplied the use of the community barbecue, support people have attended from Tararua Community Services, Rural Support Trust and Te Whatu Ora, and the Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nui-a-Rua Mobile Clinic has also attended for anyone wanting to get a flu jab or covid booster or general health check-up.

“The Recovery Team has supported these events – DigitalSpaces has been setting up a photo booth which the kids (and parents, and teachers!) have loved.  These REAP events are providing support and also a bit of fun for kids and parents,” Toni says.  
If you or your neighbours need a bit of support because of the cyclone’s impact, a number of resources are available – please visit Cyclone Gabrielle Support | Tararua District Council (tararuadc.govt.nz)

Farmers are also welcome to contact the Rural Support Trust for assistance – phone 0800 787 254.