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National State of Emergency 2023

On 14 February 2023, the New Zealand Government declared a National State of Emergency to assist in the response to Cyclone Gabrielle. 

Local States of Emergency also in place for Auckland, Northland, Tairāwhiti, Bay of Plenty Region, Waikato Region, and Hawke's Bay Region. 

The team at ICNZB would like to extend their thoughts and well wishes to anyone who has been affected by the catastrophic weather events of late. 

 

The start of 2023 has proven to be challenging for New Zealand - from flooding and a cyclone to the opposite extreme - fire bans.  No region of the country seems to have come away unscathed. 

To get the most up to date information on the natural disasters we recommend viewing the NZ Civil Defence website who have the most up to date information for all regions affected: www.civildefence.govt.nz

If you are unable to access reliable internet, tune into local radio. If your power is out, and you can access your car safely, use your car radio. AM frequency stations tends to have better nationwide coverage to our isolated communities.

Practical Support

The impact on people's ability to work, businesses and health and wellbeing are at the forefront of most people thoughts at the moment. 

To assist we have complied a central list of support that is currently available (as at 20 February 2023). 

If you need assistance navigating the various options, we recommend engaging with an ICNZB Bookkeeper - they will help you work through the process of finding the right support for your business. 

Find a Bookkeeper here >

Cash support

$2,500 cash support available from Westpac

Westpac’s small business customers can apply for a $2,500 cash grant from the Small Business Flood Relief Fund. This also applies to businesses hit by the earlier Auckland floods. Visit the Westpac website and apply now.

$2,000 cash support available from ASB

ASB’s business and personal customers can apply for a one-off $2,000 cash payment for support. You’ll need to supply some evidence of the impact that Cyclone Gabrielle, or the recent flooding, have had on your operations. You can find out more and apply at the ASB website.

Support packages from other banks

Other major banks – including ANZ, BNZ, and Kiwibank – are offering businesses temporary overdrafts, zero-fee loan restructuring, interest only periods on loans, payment deferrals and other support. Get in touch with your bank to see what’s on offer.

Civil Defence payments

Anyone who has been displaced or can’t work due to Cyclone Gabrielle can apply for a Civil Defence payment. Eligibility is limited, so check the website for more information.

Government emergency support package

The Government has announced a $50 million emergency package which is broken down into:

Primary sector support - $25 million

The Government is providing $25 million to kick-start recovery efforts for farmers, growers, whenua Māori owners, and rural communities significantly affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Details on how to apply for the grants will be available on the MPI website from Wednesday, 22 February 2023 (afternoon).

Business support - $25 million

If you own a business in parts of the North Island and have been affected by Cyclone Gabrielle or January flooding you can apply for support to help you recover.

You can apply for a grant of up to $40,000 to help you:

  • keep operating and position you for a successful recovery
  • maintain cashflow.

Information on criteria and the application process is expected to be live in March 2023 on the business.govt.nz website here

Beehive announcements

To view the announcements directly from the Beehive's website, click here: primary sector (21 February 2023); business support (26 February 2023)

KiwiSaver Financial Hardship

You may be eligible to withdraw KiwiSaver earnings early if you are experiencing financial hardship. If you would like to make an application, please contact your KiwiSaver provider.

Software - financial hardship support

MYOB

If you are experiencing financial difficulties and worried you are not able to pay your subscription, you may be eligible for assistance under MYOB's Financial Hardship Policy.  There are a range of steps MYOB may be able to take, including:

  • deferring subscription payments for up to 2 months;
  • waiving on-account monthly administration fee of $10 for up to 2 months; and
  • extending payment due dates for outstanding invoices.

Read the policy, and find instructions on how to apply, here >

Flood recovery payments for Auckland businesses

Individuals, marae and community groups affected by this year’s extreme weather events in Auckland can apply for a grant from the Auckland Council Emergency Relief Fund. You can find out more and apply here.

The Auckland Business Chamber are also offering Back to Work grants.  You can find out more here. 

Work and Income can assist with medical costs; bedding; food; power bills and repairs or replacing appliances.  More details can be found here.

Tax relief for emergency events

Inland Revenue has announced it will waive late payment penalties for businesses unable to file or pay tax on time due to the recent extreme weather. More information here.

Information on this page also includes:

  • arranging instalments for payments
  • interest charges
  • financial hardship applications

Business Continuity Insurance

If you have business continuity insurance in place, contact your insurance company or broker to discuss the possibility of a claim.

It may also be prudent to review what exactly your insurance covers and review this. 

Business continuity plans are an important part of business.  Find out more about them here at business.govt.nz. 

Business NZ

Business NZ is offering a 0800 number to assist businesses with any questions following the weather events. 

The number to call is 0800 500 362 and lines are open 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

If you prefer, you can view their website here >

New Zealand crisis support providers

Health and wellbeing

You can find assistance here:

  • Smiling Minds, a support program endorsed by MYOB.
  • Xero Assistance Program - currently free for any small business owner, their employees or family in the North Island
  • First Steps - a wellbeing and support program for NZ business owners