Communities across the country look back on the biggest storm to hit New Zealand this century.
Video / Corey Fleming / Zoe McIntosh / Getty Images
A group which has cleaned up 150 cyclone-damaged homes and properties - and counting - is among the recipients of this year’s Hastings Civic Honours Awards.
The annual awards night, hosted by Hastings District Council, was held at the city’s Municipal Building last Thursday.
That team of volunteers was set up in March 2023 and has been running since, helping de-silt, strip, clear, and prepare cyclone-affected homes for rebuilding or demolition.
To date, the team has cleared and worked on 150 homes around Hawke’s Bay.
Taonui was also awarded an individual civic honour for her tireless work generating funds and overseeing the network of volunteers.
The award recipients at the 2024 Hastings Civic Honours Awards. Photo / HDC
Taonui could not be reached for comment but after receiving the accolades, she thanked the volunteers on the group’s social media page.
“We have all acquired many new skills, shared many memorable times and we have dug deep and given our best,” she wrote.
“Thank you everyone. Ngā mihi maioha me arohanui ki a koutou katoa.”
Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst congratulated all the award recipients for their service to the community.
“These awards are a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on the people who through their leadership, commitment and dedication to others and our environment inspire us all; they make a significant and immensely positive difference to the wellbeing of our beautiful Hastings district.”
