Te Pari Fundraiser Helps Rural Communities Rebuild After Cyclone Gabrielle

Over $25,000 Raised for Farmers in Need

In February 2023, Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle tore across the North Island of New Zealand, leaving a trail of devastation that will be felt for years. With record-breaking low pressure and ferocious winds, Gabrielle became the most costly cyclone ever recorded in the Southern Hemisphere.

Entire communities were left reeling. Farms, homes, livelihoods – all swept away or buried under metres of silt and debris. In the aftermath, it became clear that this wasn’t just another weather event. It was a crisis that struck at the very heart of rural New Zealand.

Standing With Rural Communities

As the damage unfolded and the true scale of the disaster became known, the team at Te Pari knew we had to act. Supporting farmers is at the core of what we do – and now, they needed more than gear. They needed solidarity and support.

We quickly put together a video sharing the stories of three farming families who survived the flooding. Their courage, resilience, and honesty brought the human side of the disaster into focus – and inspired many to give.

To maximise our impact, we launched a Givealittle fundraising campaign and promoted it in both New Zealand and Australia. Every cent raised went directly to the Rural Support Trust, a grassroots organisation providing hands-on help to those doing it toughest on the land.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, we raised more than $25,000 to support the long road to recovery. These funds are already making a difference on the ground.

Clint Worthington, Chairperson of the East Coast Rural Support Trust, explains:

“These donations will go towards the next month or two and to help farmers set up for the long-term. The process of recovery from an event like this happens in three stages – response, recovery, and rebuilding. There’s massive damage, and it will take years to recover, so we need to have that long-term focus.”

Looking Ahead

While the storm has passed, the journey to full recovery is far from over. Cyclone Gabrielle left scars on the land and in the lives of many rural New Zealanders. But with ongoing support, hope remains strong.

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated, shared the video, or supported the cause in any way. Together, we’ve shown that when disaster strikes, the rural community stands united.

Watch the video and hear the farmers' stories