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The destruction is still very visible in Wairoa, a week on from when the river swallowed half the town.
About 250 homes were inundated, and the town has only just reconnected to the outside world.
With hundreds homeless, Hinemeihi Marae has become the focal point for the town's response.
And it's being run by some of those worst affected. Jamie Tahana and cameraman Samuel Rillstone paid a visit.