I’m writing this in the aftermath of the terrible weather event that saw numerous festivals and concerts cancelled, (Elton John again!), homes flooded, landslips, roads made impassible, slips, crops devasted, our city’s airport terminals swimming in water and tragically four lives lost across Auckland.
I’ve seen readings of over 200 mms of rain that all fell in one day and it doesn’t appear to have abated just yet. They are in fact warning of more rain to come, schools have been closed until February 7th, but let’s hope it isn’t enough to further add to the carnage left from Auckland Anniversary weekend.
Criticism has been levelled at the Auckland Mayor who didn’t announce a state of emergency until well after 10pm on Friday night, bringing into question the process that is deemed necessary in such circumstances. He has gone so far as to say that ‘decisions made on the night may have been incorrect.’ Support, however, from Wellington seemed far more sincere with the prompt appearance of our new Prime Minister, although this was shown little coverage. But the media standups have been little short of a farce with Brown focused more on protecting his reputation and Hipkins unable to control the narrative. Does this bode well for the relationship needed between our biggest city and its Wellington purse. An announcement of financial support will surely be forthcoming in addition to the somewhat paltry sum of $100k so far offered. With many displaced, roads unpassable, and livelihoods destroyed, a lot is at stake from our leaders in this situation.
What was heartening to witness though was the level of community support from individuals and groups who opened up their homes for those stranded by rising waters, engaged equipment they had to divert water from homes, gathered and assisted with the evacuation of families and even an entire retirement village and subsequently offer assistance with the clean-up.
The human spirit when challenged by adversity won through and championed those in roles dedicated to help to ensure that damage to livelihoods, homes and lives was limited. No matter age, ethnicity, background or occupation, people stepped up and helped others in need.
Could it be that this rather intense string of events has restored our kiwi ideals, and the division, anger and fear that have plagued our lives for the last three years is finally in retreat? Or will it continue as some will have us believe that this is only the start of a dangerous slide into a New New Zealand.
Only Time will Tell.