Western Bay Emergency Response Fund Begins Distributions Following January Weather Event
The Western Bay Emergency Response Fund has begun its first round of funding distributions this week, supporting organisations and charities significantly impacted by January’s severe weather event.
Among the recipients is the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service, which was severely affected by landslides on Mauao on 21–22 January. The scale of the incident quickly became apparent, with the club facing a rapidly evolving situation. Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone on site was the immediate priority, as the clubrooms became a primary evacuation and gathering point for families and emergency services.
“As lifeguards we train for emergencies; however, no amount of training prepares us for what happened that day, with members of our organisation and the Western Bay of Plenty Search and Rescue squad amongst those first on scene,” said Brent Warner, Chair of the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service.
As the extent of the damage on Mauao became clearer — including visible tension cracks directly above the Surf Club — it became evident the club needed to evacuate immediately. In an extraordinary effort, 30 members on site worked within a 20-minute window to remove critical lifesaving equipment from the building. That evening, senior members met to establish an operational plan focused on rapidly setting up a temporary base to ensure lifeguard patrols could continue uninterrupted. A portacom and 40-foot storage container were installed the following day, with additional containers delivered over subsequent days to house essential equipment and maintain frontline operations. Funding of $33,919 from the Western Bay Emergency Response Fund will help offset some of the significant costs associated with the relocation and establishment of temporary facilities.
“The impact of 22 January on our members has been harrowing and emotional. However, at the time of the largest magnitude impact on our organisation in its 97-year history, our members have stood tall and remained absolutely focused on continuing to deliver frontline lifeguard patrols, keeping our community safe in and around our beaches,” Mr Warner said.
The club remains under a red-sticker status, and it is currently unclear when — or if — access to the building will be restored. While the financial impact has been substantial and the emotional toll significant, the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service and its members have remained steadfast in their commitment to community safety.