Hon Kris Faafoi
Minister of Civil Defence
21 February 2018
Minister heads south to see recovery needs
Civil Defence Minister Hon Kris Faafoi is travelling to the South Island today to see the effects of former Cyclone Gita
and discuss recovery with local mayors and officials.
“Today we are assessing the damage across affected regions. The focus will be on clean-up and recovery, doing damage
assessment and supporting communities and travellers who are isolated or affected.
“The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency management is also keeping an eye on the potential for more heavy rain in South Canterbury and Otago, and the
effect of this on river levels.”
Mr Faafoi says that while there was considerable damage over the past 24 hours, good decisions were made to declare
local states of emergency early.
“This meant we have kept people safe. I do appreciate that some people may have been inconvenienced but it was great
that people took steps to keep themselves and their families safe and listened to official advice.
“There will be a time for lessons to be learned but for now we’re focused on what needs to be done for communities and
business to be able to go about their lives.
“Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups were well prepared for this event and communities also responded
brilliantly.”
Damien O’Connor, MP for West Coast Tasman, is travelling with Mr Faafoi. A further trip to see damage elsewhere may be
confirmed if required.
ends