New Zealand is launching an international fundraising appeal for the massive reconstruction work needed after Cyclone Gabrielle tore across the country's North Island earlier this month, forcing thousands of people into shelters and killing eleven.
- The appeal will be modelled after the Christchurch earthquake fundraiser, which raised more than $NZ94 million
- NZ's prime minister said the appeal would target people abroad with strong connections to the country
- Cyclone Gabrielle hit the North Island on February 12, causing a state of emergency to be declared
The appeal will fund longer-term recovery projects and target wealthy expatriates, businesses and anyone with affection for New Zealand, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said on Monday.
He said Facebook owner Meta has offered to promote the appeal.
"One of the things we know from past events is that there are people abroad with very strong connections to New Zealand who want to be able to make a contribution," Mr Hipkins said at a news conference announcing the initiative.
The appeal will be modelled after the 2011 Christchurch earthquake fundraiser, which collected more than $NZ94 million ($86.09 million).
Cyclone Gabrielle hit New Zealand's North Island on February 12 and battered roads and bridges, and left tens of thousands without power across an area that makes up a third of the country.
Police are still searching for four missing people.
A national state of emergency, only the third declared in the country's history, will continue in cyclone-hit regions.
Mr Hipkins said the government was considering "all the options" to pay for reconstruction, with the cost forecast to bear a similar price tag to the $NZ13.5 billion spent after the Christchurch earthquake.
The government is under pressure to avoid spending which could worsen inflation after New Zealand's central bank raised interest rates to the highest level in 14 years and flagged more hikes to come.
Reuters