Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand with 1/6 million people. On Jan. 27, 2023, an estimated 9.8 inches (240 mm) of rain, equal to a summer’s worth of rain, fell on Auckland, making it the city’s wettest day on record. Additional rain fell on Jan. 31, which only added to the destruction of people's houses, cars and properties.
Given the intensity and the amount of previous rainfall, the ground was waterlogged, and rivers were full. This provided little capacity for the absorption of new rainfall. It also created risks for landslides and rivers overflowing. This led to the evacuation of hundreds of people.
As of midday 7 February:
Families have been displaced and volunteers left exhausted. So, what can we do?
The Catalytic Foundation have surveyed frontline charities supporting flood victims and the following items are needed by families:
"Floods impacted a number of already vulnerable families. Yes the families would appreciate support with educational resources, support with uniforms and school fees". Mangere based charity
"We are supporting our local Iwi with 137 displaced people, who have lost their houses and are not insured. Food, and furniture including bedding our the main concerns at present" South Auckland Community Charity