The Mayoral Relief Fund is open until the end of March with revised grant amounts available. Individuals are now eligible for up to $10,000, while community groups, farmers, businesses – including sole entrepreneurs - and Marae are able to apply for up to $30,000.

The fund received over $300,000 in donations and has so far distributed over $140,000. With approximately $160,000 remaining Tararua District Mayor Tracey Collis is encouraging Tararua residents still suffering hardship due to Cyclone Gabrielle to get applications in by the end of March, at which point the Panel will once again come together and review all applications, and decisions on grants will be made.

Find more information or to apply, head to Cyclone Gabrielle Support | Tararua District Council (tararuadc.govt.nz). Alternately you can download an application form and criteria and drop it into any of our Council offices .