Carolyn and Frederick’s home in Mangere faced a devastating blow during Cyclone Gabrielle, resulting in extensive flooding damage both internally and externally.
As a result, the carpets were removed, and household belongings were relocated to storage. Like so many families in our region they didn’t have house or contents insurance, leaving them unable to afford necessary repairs.
The family of five ended up having to live and sleep together in one room for the last fourteen months, with the eldest daughter moving in with neighbours until interior repairs started this month.
Carolyn and Fredrick initially applied to Habitat’s Home Repair Programme but were unable to meet the financial criteria but were able to access funding through Te Puni Kōkiri and the Fisher & Paykel Foundation, as well as having the support from Atlas Gentech NZ Ltd and Habitat Northern’s own operations team prepping and painting the exterior over two busy days in late March.
The repairs needed for this home are extensive, needing a new roof as well as extensive interior and exterior repairs, including a bathroom renovation, and repairs to the windows surrounds. Also, a separate shed has been erected for storage, ensuring the family can start fully living in their home again.
Caroline expressed her gratitude to have the teams working on her home, she said “Although this is only the first step in having our home done it has already lifted our spirits a lot. After the shed went up, we spent the weekend moving goods out of the house so we can start the repairs internally. We are also really active in the local sporting community and can’t wait to be able to host regular meetings at home again.
