14/02/2024
Dawn hikoi to mark cyclone anniversary
A dawn hikoi to mark the first anniversary of Cyclone Gabrielle was held this morning.
As the sun rose, Wairoa whānau came together to acknowledge the anniversary and reflect on the past year.
The journey of remembrance began with a gathering outside the A and P Showgrounds, where the flooded river breached. The group wove their way through North Clyde, where the flooded waters engulfed the land a year ago, collecting walkers along the way and finishing at the War Memorial Park/Tapuae Grounds for a Civic Service and breakfast.
Around 250 people joined the hikoi, reflecting on the past year, the progress made, and the challenges still ahead.
Activities continue today with a Mokopuna Day and a whānau concert this evening, both at War Memorial Park/Tapuae Grounds.