Over the past month, parishes of Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand (PCANZ) affected by the recent Cyclone Gabrielle have pitched in with relief efforts for their communities. Through genLend, a well-received disaster relief initiative, St Andrew’s Church in Hastings arranged for equipment such as generators, water pumps, and water blasters from around the country to be brought in to power the recovery of affected communities in Hawke’s Bay.
Wairoa Union Parish is supporting rebuilding efforts in this remote community where many people are uninsured. Mangapapa Union Church is running a food bank and overcame difficulties to make deliveries to isolated homes. St Columba’s Church, Havelock North provided hospitality, and distributed blankets and other necessities on behalf of Civil Defence. St Columba’s Presbyterian Church Taradale also provided a warm welcoming space for people, and its minister is collaborating with local pastors for joint care efforts in the vicinity, which includes distribution of aid.