Ngatai- Cooper whanau devastated but lucky to be alive!
Help this whanau that are devastated by loosing everything in flash floods
Te Araroa, Gisborne
Give a little page for Bully, Huia, and their whanau,
The 21st of January 2026 will go down in the history books for our Matakaoa region, as arguably a greater weather event than both Cyclone Bola (1987) and Gabrille (2023).
Their home at Punaruku is at the foothills of Pukeamaru Maunga across the road from the Te Araroa motor camp, as you head over hill to Hicks Bay.
Even though Bully, Huia and their tamariki were well prepared, and set to move, a rapid surge from behind caused a flash flood and nothing prepared them for what was about to unfold!
They became trapped in their own home and had to navigate their way to the roof, to escape the advancing torrent of water surrounding their entire property.
Huge acknowledgements need to be made to Bully and Huia, who secured the safety of their Tamariki (5) in all the youngest being 3 years old on the roof in torrential rain for 5-6 hours till they could be rescued.
This whanau has lost absolutely everything, Home, contents, and vehicles and are very lucky to be still with us, any support no matter how little will be greatly appreciated!
Mary-jane Waitoa's involvement (page creator)
I am a close cousin to both Huia and bully
Use of funds
To help with Clean up and rebuild
Latest update
Nga mihi maioha🤍 23 February 2026
On behalf of the Ngatai-Cooper whānau, I want to say the biggest, most heartfelt thank you to you all.
After the devastating flooding in Punaruku, Te Araroa on January 22nd, they were left facing an overwhelming road ahead. The generosity shown through your donations has truly humbled us all. Your support is helping them take steps forward with independence and dignity as they begin to rebuild and recover. It also gave them the much needed time to recover from the trauma suffered, without the financial worry even for a moment.
Every contribution has made a practical difference but what has meant just as much, if not more, were the messages.
The words of hope. The kindness. The aroha sent from friends, extended whānau, and complete strangers. In the midst of shock and loss, those messages wrapped around them like a korowai. They were a reminder that they are not alone.
Witnessing this outpouring of support has been a powerful reminder of the strength of humanity and the unique culture of whanaungatanga we are so fortunate to have here in Aotearoa. The way people showed up - generously, quietly, without hesitation has been incredibly moving.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for standing beside them during such a difficult time. Your aroha has carried them further than you know.
With deep gratitude 🤍
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