Widespread flooding and heavy rainfall have left the Tasman District facing major infrastructure damage and escalating recovery costs, with the local council reporting that nearly its entire annual budget has been spent within two weeks. Following a month of intense rain culminating in a severe storm, road repairs alone have cost up to US$310,000 per day, with total damage estimated between US$12 million and US$15 million. About 40 roads remain closed, with 200 personnel and 15 heavy machines working across the region to restore access. The state of emergency is expected to be lifted soon, followed by a one-month recovery transition.
Richard Kirby, the council's community infrastructure and recovery manager, said the most challenging conditions are in the Motueka Valley, where saturated soil continues to collapse. Additional issues include damaged roads under landslides, washed-out sections, and compromised bridge approaches. A geotechnical assessment is ongoing in Kaiteriteri to ensure stability before road reinstatement. While the immediate goal is to reopen roads, Kirby noted that permanent repairs could take up to two years. The council plans to request financial assistance from the New Zealand Transport Agency to support ongoing restoration.
The flooding has also severely affected the region's horticulture sector, which is vital to the local economy. With Tasman being a major producer of fruits and vegetables, crop damage and planting delays are expected to push prices higher nationwide. Angus Simms, co-founder of produce company Wonky Box, warned that shortages of vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli could emerge in two to three months. While fruit that was harvested and stored, such as apples and pears, remains safe, infrastructure damage could hinder next season's harvest.
To aid recovery, the government and Horticulture New Zealand have jointly committed US$61,000 to assist growers with immediate coordination and support. An additional US$183,000 has been allocated to the Mayoral Relief Fund for rural recovery, while US$61,000 was previously committed in June for coordination efforts, including US$12,000 for the Top of the South Rural Support Trust.
Growers are encouraged to register with the Rural Support Trust for access to financial and mental health assistance, as well as local recovery resources. While the damage is extensive, officials emphasize that early support and coordinated efforts will be key to restoring horticultural production and regional infrastructure.
Source 1: RNZ
Source 2: Horticulture New Zealand
