Free Hanmer Holidays for North Island flood victims
Businesses from the Hanmer Springs community have rallied together to offer free holidays in the alpine town to
families affected by last years Manawatu floods.
Retired local Ray Smith, who launched the initiative, says offers of accommodation, activities, travel and food have
poured in from local businesses.
“I feel that the poor people who suffered from the floods up there could do with a break. I’d hate to be in that
situation myself. No doubt they have been flat out getting things sorted out up there until now, so they deserve a
holiday,” says Ray Smith.
To get the scheme off the ground, the Hanmer Business Association sponsored an advertisement in the local newspaper
asking businesses if they would be willing to help bring families from the Manawatu area to Hanmer.
“The level of generosity offered by the Hanmer community has been astounding,” says Ray Smith. Offerings include 104
nights of accommodation, $380 of petrol vouchers, free travel on the Interislander ferry, unrestricted use of the Hanmer
Springs Thermal Pools, and a range of meals from restaurants, private homes, supermarkets, and even a potluck dinner. A
wide range of activities have also been offered.
“Hanmer is the perfect spot for these people to come on holiday. We have so many activities on offer and plenty of
accommodation,” says Ray Smith.
In order to choose who comes to Hanmer, Ray Smith has contacted the Red Cross, who will assess the most appropriate
recipients and offer them the holidays accordingly.