Reflecting on a Year of Resilience: Mangere’s Journey Through the Auckland Floods
As we welcomed the sunshine at our third street BBQ on Hinau Rd in Māngere Bridge, it was hard not to reflect on the year that has passed – a year marked by the Auckland floods that deeply affected our community, particularly those near Te Ararata Creek. From the dreadful day on 27 January 2023 to the following months, we witnessed an incredible resilience and community spirit journey.
A Year of Challenges and Community Strength
It began with the floods, turning our neighbourhood into what looked like ‘skip bin suburbia’. Houses bore the scars of waterlines, while inside, the damage was heartbreakingly clear – soaked interiors, ruined belongings, and the financial strain of recovery. Insurance claims were a headache, but the real story was in the grit and determination of our residents.
Our team and many others plunged into the thick of it. We found ourselves dismantling waterlogged furniture for efficient disposal, a grim but necessary task. Families tried to salvage what little they could, while others had to flee with just the clothes on their backs, returning later to barely recognizable homes.
The Road to Recovery
As weeks turned into months, we saw gradual improvements – electricity and hot water were restored, but the journey was far from over. Community service providers, including our team, worked tirelessly to distribute food parcels, bedding, and school supplies. The landscape of our community changed, with some families relocating and schools adjusting to new students.
Now, 11 months on, the transformation is still evident. Boarded-up houses and deserted streets speak of those contemplating selling their homes, considering their future. But amidst this, there’s a growing sense of togetherness. Neighbours, once strangers, now know each other by name. This adversity has brought us closer, forming once unimaginable bonds.
Looking Ahead with Hope
Parents in our community are focused on creating a better future for their children, who have shown remarkable patience through these challenging times. There’s a sense that while things will never be the same, there is a ‘village’ of support – a community ready to lend a hand, a listening ear, and a heart full of empathy.
As we look forward to 2024, with plans to return to our street BBQs and community events, it’s clear that our journey is far from over. But with each other’s support, we remain hopeful and confident that we can rebuild stronger and more connected than ever.
A Community United
Our BBQ on Hinau Rd was not just an event but a symbol of our unbreakable spirit. As we gathered under the clear skies, we celebrated the food, the company and our collective journey through one of the most challenging years in our community’s history. We stand together, ready to face whatever the future holds, knowing that in our village, nobody is alone.
