Western Bay Emergency Response Fund opens following devastating weather event

Floral tributes of remembrance left at The Mall, Pilot bay. Photo / Michael Craig

The Western Bay Emergency Response Fund is now open and people are being asked to donate if they can.

The fund has been activated to support communities after severe weather caused serious damage across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

A state of emergency was declared on January 21, 2026, as the region prepared to experience record-breaking rainfall — the most ever recorded within 24 hours.

The extreme weather triggered a major landslide at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, leaving a number of people missing.

Another slip in Welcome Bay destroyed a home, claiming the lives of two family members. Flooding has also impacted many communities.

In a statement to SunLive, the Acorn Foundation said the fund would provide urgent financial support to local organisations, marae, and charities working directly with affected communities through the days ahead.

“Our region is hurting right now, and we know people want to help their neighbours and communities,” said Matty Nicholson of Acorn Foundation.

“This fund ensures their support reaches the groups and organisations who will be working with those affected by this emergency through the hard times that are still ahead of us.”

The fund is now accepting donations from the public. If you’re in a position to help, please donate now. Every donation stays local and goes to where it’s needed most.

To donate, visit https://www.acornfoundation.org.nz/give/western-bay-emergency-response-fund

The Western Bay Emergency Response Fund is a joint initiative of Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, TECT, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

-Content supplied by Acorn Foundation