Destruction caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in Esk Valley, Hawke's Bay. Photo: Supplied / Katrina Harris
As the anniversary of Cyclone Gabrielle approaches, affected residents in Hawke's Bay are being offered free counselling sessions to help them deal with the fallout.
Te Whatu Ora Matau a Māui (Hawke's Bay) has launched a $2 million wellbeing package which also covers online doctor appointments, pharmacy treatments and rongoā (Māori medicine).
Te Whatu Ora Cyclone Gabrielle recovery manager Pania Shingleton said it canvassed community and iwi health providers to understand what was needed - and mental health support was top of the list
Te Whatu Ora had funded such support throughout the year since the cyclone, but it was likely people would struggle around the upcoming anniversary, she said.
"Coming up to the eve of the anniversary of Cyclone Gabrielle, a lot of people are starting to revisit what happened.
"We did want to make sure there was some comprehensive care in place for them."
The fallout from Cyclone Gabrielle left people dealing with everything from the stress of losing their homes to anxiety every time it rained, Shingleton said.
"All that tends to build up over time. The need for counselling isn't really going to go away for quite some time, that's our assessment.
"But what we're really keen to do is ensure that people can reach out, get counselling when they need to."
Each affected resident can access seven free counselling sessions.
Those displaced after the cyclone - and all Wairoa residents - will also be eligible for two free GP and nurse visits, and a free after-hours emergency consultation, with proof that their home was categorised by their local council.
Five Māori Health providers have been funded to offer rongoā, and help those who struggle to access healthcare book appointments with online doctor service Practice Plus.
"We are wanting to ensure this package is effective in helping people where it is needed, with a wide range of options to ensure people are able to look after their health and wellbeing," Shingleton said.
The free services are available until 30 June, and people can contact their health provider to arrange appointments.