Search

Social Development Minister Anne Tolley says that thousands of Cantabrians have received free counselling and support with their accommodation expenses since the earthquakes five years ago, and that help continues to be available for those that need it.

“We are well aware that for many people, young and old, the trauma continues especially around the anniversary and following the recent large earthquake on Valentine’s Day,” says Mrs Tolley.

Social Development Minister Anne Tolley has announced that the Temporary Accommodation Assistance (TAA) programme for Canterbury residents affected by earthquakes is to be extended.

The TAA supports homeowners with additional costs such as rent, board, or motel stays, when they are in temporary accommodation while waiting for repairs to their homes to be completed. Up to $330 per week is available for these temporary costs.

“Over $50 million has been paid to Canterbury homeowners through this programme since 2011,” says Mrs Tolley.