Now, he’s focusing his attention on how people can keep themselves and each other safe during and after major events.
“[The plan] is what the community does when this kind of thing happens.
“We’re looking at the specific risks in Kinloch; volcanic activity, ashfall from Taranaki - which people don’t think about - and heavy weather events.”
This involves getting anyone with resources on board, from firefighters to accommodation providers and even the local shop.
When Smith moved to Kinloch with his partner, Dr Melissa Davidson, whom he met while they both worked for the Red Cross, he was looking for a way to put his skills to use.
“When we moved to Kinloch we thought, ‘How can we get involved in the community?’”
Now, Smith helps to run Davidson’s business training medical professionals in her area of expertise – pelvic health physiotherapy- as well as helping to develop the resilience plan.
He was nominated for the Good Sort award by fellow community helper Alivia Roberts, who is the co-ordinator of Neighbourhood Support Taupō.
In her nomination, Roberts praised Smith’s selflessness.
“He dedicates his personal time to help the community of Kinloch.
“He really is a good sort.”
However, Smith acknowledged planning for such events isn’t a one-man job.
“Thank you to all of the other people who help make this happen- it is a team effort.”
Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas said Kinloch and the wider area were lucky to have people like Smith.
“Thank you so much, Simon, on behalf of the people of Taupō.
“It sounds like you really help a lot of people out.”
Milly Fullick is a journalist based in Taupō. She joined the Taupō and Tūrangi Herald team in 2022.
This is a Public Interest Journalism funded role through NZ On Air
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