Mayoral Relief Fund opens for ex-tropical Cyclone Tam losses

Far North households and businesses that lost food or suffered damage to household items due to ex-tropical Cyclone Tam in April, are eligible to apply for support from Tahua Āwhina a te Kahika - Mayoral Relief Fund, the council announced on Monday 26 May.

At the peak of the cyclone, it was reported that more than 24,000 homes and businesses were without power in Te Tai Tokerau, with some Far North households without power for five days or longer.

To be eligible for compensation, claimants must be able to demonstrate the impact the cyclone had on property. For example, to show that extended power outages caused their food freezers to thaw and the contents to become inedible. Applications are open from Monday 26 May to Friday 6 June.

Applicants must also provide evidence that they have sought compensation from other organisations but have not been successful (e.g. insurance or Ministry of Social Development). A cap of $500 applies to households applying for funding regarding spoiled food.

Application forms are available on the council website. Applicants must download a form, fill in the details, and email it to recoverymanager@fndc.govt.nz with supporting evidence. Alternatively, the application form and supporting information can be dropped at any council service centre, library or isite. Staff will also be able to assist applicants to download a form, if required.

A panel will assess each application individually and a decision will be issued within 20 business days.