In the last edition of the Martinborough Star, we reported on efforts by a group of locals to establish a Community Emergency Hub for the Ruakokoputuna area.
There is little doubt that extreme weather events are occurring with greater frequency, and of course, the ever-present risk of earthquake remains. Following a meeting with Mel Arcus from WREMO — covered in that same edition — the project got underway.
During the recent bouts of heavy rain, I think it is fair to say that some of us who are newer to the area felt a little less isolated and a good deal safer, as messages of support and offers of practical help flowed through the community WhatsApp and Facebook groups. There was a genuinely reassuring sense of looking out for one another. In previous storms, some of us have felt anxious and unsettled as floodwaters rose and trees came down — that sense of community connection made a real difference.
In previous storms, some of us have felt anxious and unsettled as floodwaters rose and trees came down — that sense of community connection made a real difference.
The project is ongoing. We are planning another meeting with either WREMO or South Wairarapa Emergency Management to help shape the next steps.
In the meantime, we have been fortunate to receive generous support from Rabobank, Wairarapa Building Society, and the Martinborough Community Board. Grants were secured for specific aspects of the project, and thanks to their generosity, we are now able to improve the comfort, resilience, and safety of the community when the next major event arrives — as we know it will.
If any other communities are considering setting up something similar, we would be happy to share our experience. Be aware, there are organisations, both local and national, with grant funding available to help make it happen.
