OUR ROAD TO RECOVERY | TŌ TĀTOU HAERENGA KI TE WHAKAORANGA

A PRACTICAL HUB TO HELP YOU TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Following the February weather event, we know many of our communities are still dealing with the impacts on homes, land, roads, and waterways.

This page is here to help you find the right support, understand what to do next, and connect with the people who can help.

Recovery looks different for everyone. Whether you’re repairing your home, restoring your land, or trying to understand your options, we’re here to support you.

WHAT DO YOU NEED HELP WITH?

HOME REPAIRS AND BUILDING INFO

If your home has been affected by flooding, you may be able to carry out some repairs without needing building consent.

Simple repairs (like-for-like) often do not require consent, including:

• Replacing plasterboard, insulation, or flooring

• Repainting or re-lining walls

• Replacing kitchens, bathrooms, or fittings in the same location

You may need consent if:

• Structural framing or foundations are damaged

• You are changing layouts or materials

• The building has shifted or settled

Key things to remember:

• Fully dry out your home before repairing

• Remove any mould-affected materials

• Keep records and photos for insurance

If you are unsure, contact our building team: info@otodc.govt.nz

Further information for affected buildings can be found here.

INSURANCE AND CLAIMS - HOW TO GET STARTED

We know dealing with insurance after an event like this can feel overwhelming. The steps below can help you get started and avoid delays.

STEP 1 – CONTACT YOUR INSURER

• Let them know your property has been affected

• Start your claim as soon as possible

• Ask what information they need from you

STEP 2 – DOCUMENT THE DAMAGE

Before starting repairs (where safe to do so):

• Take clear photos and videos of all damage

• Make a list of affected items and areas

• Keep receipts for any urgent work or purchases

STEP 3 – DO URGENT WORK ONLY

You can carry out urgent work to make your home safe, such as:

• Removing water-damaged materials

• Securing the property

• Preventing further damage

Check with your insurer before starting major repairs.

STEP 4 – KEEP RECORDS

• Save emails and claim numbers

• Keep quotes, invoices, and reports

• Write down who you speak to and when

THINGS TO BE AWARE OF

• Insurance claims can take time, especially after large events

• You may need building assessments or reports to support your claim

• Some work may require building consent depending on the extent of damage

If you are having difficulty with your insurance claim, there is independent support available.

MINISTRY OF BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND EMPLOYMENT (MBIE)

MBIE provides information and guidance to help people understand their rights and responsibilities when dealing with insurance claims after an emergency event.

They can help you understand:

• How the insurance claims process works

• What your insurer is responsible for

• What to do if your claim is delayed or disputed

• Your rights under your insurance policy

IF YOU ARE HAVING ISSUES WITH YOUR CLAIM

If you are not satisfied with how your claim is being handled:

• Raise your concerns directly with your insurer first

• Ask for your claim to be formally reviewed

• Keep records of all communication

If the issue is not resolved, you can take your complaint to a free, independent dispute resolution service.

INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES OMBUDSMAN (IFSO)

The Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme provides a free and independent service to help resolve disputes between you and your insurer.

They can:

• Investigate complaints

• Help resolve disputes

• Make decisions on claims

Phone: 0800 888 202
Website: www.ifso.nz

OTHER INSURANCE SUPPORT AVAILABLE

If you are having difficulty navigating your claim or need support:

• Ministry of Social Development - 0800 559 009

• Here to Help U - www.heretohelpu.nz

• Rural Support Trust - 0800 787 254

You can also contact Council and we can help point you in the right direction:
Email: info@otodc.govt.nz

LAND, STREAMS AND FARM RECOVERY

If your land, streambanks or waterways have been affected, there is support available.

WHO TO TALK TO FIRST

The Waikato Regional Council (WRC) leads river and stream management.

They can help with:

• Streambank stabilisation

• Riparian planting advice

• Site visits and recovery options

Request help:
https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/services/request-a-service/
Phone: 0800 800 401

COMMUNITY RESTORATION SUPPORT

Local groups are working alongside landowners to restore waterways:

• Puniu River Care - www.puniuinc.org

• Waikato River Care - info@waikatorivercare.co.nz

• Taiea te Taiao - taieatetaiao@landcare.org.nz

• Waipā Rere Noa Inc - Contact Waikato Regional Council to connect 0800 800 401

These groups often:

• Partner on planting projects

• Help access funding

• Support long-term restoration

Planting season is typically late autumn to early winter. Now is the time to plan.

ROADS NETWORK UPDATES

Our teams and contractors are continuing to repair roads, bridges, and access routes across the district.

• Some roads may remain restricted to residents

• Temporary access solutions may be in place

• Conditions can change quickly depending on weather and progress

Stay up to date:
https://www.otodc.govt.nz/latest-news/article/605/roading-update-otorohanga-district

WHERE TO FIND SUPPORT

If you or someone you know needs help following the floods, the following services are available.

HERE TO HELP YOU

Food parcels, financial support and community assistance
www.heretohelpu.nz

MINISTRY OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Financial assistance and accommodation support
Phone: 0800 559 009

RURAL SUPPORT TRUST

Confidential support for farmers and rural communities
Phone: 0800 787 254

NEED TO TALK?

Free counselling available 24/7
Call or text: 1737

SALVATION ARMY

Food assistance and community support
Phone: 0800 53 00 00

RED CROSS

Community support services
Phone: 0800 733 276

CONTACT US

If you need assistance or have questions about flood recovery:

Ōtorohanga District Council
Phone: 0800 734 000 (24 hours)
Email: info@otodc.govt.nz