Severe weather has caused serious damage across Tauranga Moana and the Western Bay of Plenty, prompting the activation of the Western Bay Emergency Response Fund to support affected communities.
A State of Emergency was declared on January 21, 2026, as the region prepared to experience record-breaking rainfall — the most ever recorded within 24 hours. The extreme weather triggered a major landslide at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, leaving a number of people missing. Another slip in Welcome Bay destroyed a home, claiming the lives of several family members. Flooding has also impacted many communities.
The impact is significant, and the lives of people in our communities have been changed forever.
In response, the Western Bay Emergency Response Fund has been activated — a joint initiative by Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, TECT, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council. The fund will provide urgent financial support to local organisations, marae, and charities working directly with affected communities through the days ahead.
“Our region is hurting right now, and we know people want to help their neighbours and communities”, said Matty Nicholson of Acorn Foundation. "This fund ensures their support reaches the groups and organisations who will be working with those affected by this emergency through the hard times that are still ahead of us." The fund is now accepting donations from the public. If you’re in a position to help, please donate now. Every donation stays local and goes to where it's needed most.
To donate, visit https://www.acornfoundation.org.nz/give/western-bay-emergency-response-fund
The Western Bay Emergency Response Fund is a joint initiative of Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, TECT, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council
