House lost in landslide

Larissa here (Teressa's sister).

I'm wanting to post an update on Teressa and Luke's situation to all those in the BOP, wider NZ and even from overseas who have shown an interest, reached out or have donated to this give-a-little fund.

This give-a-little page was set up the day after the accident by myself. Not really knowing fully what to expect, but knowing they were likely going to need more support than our direct family could offer, both in the short and long term.

At the time i did know there were a few lost items (including one of their vehicles) which was newly purchased which had not yet been insured, but mostly after seeing the catastrophic damage to their home and the displacement, I was thinking there may possibly be long term effects on them and the kids.

Arriving that night, and back visiting the property the next day, seeing the state of the house and hearing their story of escaping that night was beyond unreal. We are so extremely grateful no one was injured.

There has been a bit of public scrutiny around these pages and how they are used in relation to insurance providers. As of today their house and contents insurance cover has been declined due to a technicality in changing providers shortly before the accident, which they are now needing to pursue legal action on. I am fully aware give-a-little pages are not a back up to an insurance policy, so we are not asking for any financial donations to replace what house insurance would of. This will be their own journey and they have family support. But also in hindsight, i'm extremely glad i did set this page up when i did and that it will make some difference.

In the days following the incident the family pets were unaccounted for. I'm glad to report both cats have been found and returned by neighbors and are setting into their new temporary home.

All the kids are doing well, besides from some initial nightmare's in the days following the event, but these are subsiding. Mostly the family is in good spirits!

My main message today, that i feel is important to communicate, is how amazing its been to be on the receiving end of such amazing community support.

In the days following the incident the amount of friends, family, friends of friends, but mostly complete strangers who have left comments, offered donations or practical support, dropped off food, second hand clothing, shown up to our parents house (where Teressa, Luke and the 5 kids are staying) or offered well wishes has been so mind blowing!

To all of you, its truly been heartwarming, extremely humbling and quite emotional at times seeing the names, businesses, amount of people, but mostly the amount of anonymous people, who have wanted to help.

I'm yet to share the full print out of names from donations with Teressa and Luke as they are still so busy with all sorts of admin and arrangements to get life back on track. We recognise some as they have come through, and want thank people personally when we come up for air. But for those who donated anonymously, who we may never get to thank, id like to thank you now.

The silver lining that has come out of this is feeling the love of just how amazing people can be, and the incredible amount of support we have felt from the community.

Teressa and Luke also want to send a huge thank you to their neighbours, who found and helped the kids out of the house that night and for their support in the days afterwards.

From my family to yours, lots of love, thank you all so very very much!!

The Hodgson and Hannan Family.