The Government is putting $150,000 into mayoral relief after last week’s lower North Island flooding, with $100,000 for Wellington City and $50,000 for Ruapehu District Council to support people in Ohura.

Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell said the contribution is intended to help with the clean-up and support those who need it. He also acknowledged the death of Philip Sutton during the Wellington flooding.

Mitchell said he has visited affected areas and spoken with emergency responders and locals, and has been in contact with mayors in the affected districts.

Mayoral Relief Funds are discretionary pools administered locally to meet immediate needs for individuals, whānau, community organisations and marae. They do not replace insurance and sit alongside other assistance that may be available through agencies such as the Ministry of Social Development and Ministry for Primary Industries.

Details on eligibility and how to apply were not included in the announcement and are typically set by the councils administering the funds. Mitchell thanked emergency services, iwi, volunteers, and utility and lifeline workers who supported the response.