Civil Defence is advising Central Otago residents who want to help those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle to restrict donations to cash. 

Civil Defence Emergency management groups ask that people do not donate goods and instead give money directly to relief funds. 

“We know that donating goods seems like the right thing to do, but often the donations don’t match what communities need,” a Civil Defence spokesperson said. 

“Monetary donations are the most useful as it means organisations can provide what is really needed to those affected.” 

You can learn more about the Auckland Council Emergency Relief Fund here.

Links to information about the other Mayoral Relief Funds will be provided at: www.civildefence.govt.nz once they are established. 

People can also donate to funds set up by organisations like the New Zealand Red Cross or community groups.