Napier's mayor expects the Government's financial contribution to support those worst hit by flooding will get used up quickly.
More than 100 homes have been deemed uninhabitable and over 200 people are in emergency accommodation - with that number expected to grow in the coming days - after torrential rain smashed the area a week ago.
Applications to access $100,000 in funding provided by the government to the Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund open on Monday.
Mayor Kirsten Wise said that would get blown through pretty quickly.
"It is a starting point as far as I'm concerned," she said.
"I've already indicated to the [Minister of Emergency Management] that this is an ongoing conversation and we will definitely be going back to [her] to seek further funding.
"Because I'm sure that $100,000 will go pretty quickly."
She said the first people to get the money would be those who have no other avenues for support to ensure they have food, clothing and a roof over their head.
Community organisations which have provided huge amounts of support would also be at the top of the queue.
"And how we can now assist them now from a financial perspective to not only recompense them for the work they've already done but ensure that they can continue to provide the support that they've been doing over the last week."
Wise said irrespective of who paid, the worst affected families would be looked after.
She said she and officials are meeting on Tuesday with the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment, which is the lead agency finding homes for those in emergency accommodation.
She said it has been amazing to see the community rallying around to support each other, and then help each other with the huge cleanup task.
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
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