BUILDING RESILIENCE, TOGETHER

Matakana is building on its strong sense of community to prepare for the next major storm, flood, or power outage - with the Matakana Community Hall set to become the village's dedicated resilience hub.

The hall, which is owned by the community, Auckland Council, informed by established recently fundraised for rooftop solar panels community readiness groups such as and batteries. Thanks to a grant from Foundation North, generous support from local community members, and installation by Solarcraft, the panels went up in August.

The Matakana Emergency Readiness Group (MERGE), a community-led initiative supported by the Matakana Community Group, is developing a preparedness plan in partnership with the hall and Auckland Council, informed by established community readiness groups such as Rainbows End and Whangateau.

Given its location and role in the village, the Matakana Hall will be a visible resilience hub for the wider community. After discussions with the local fire chief, MERGE Chair Andrew Clearwater said the hall will serve as a communications centre and information point during an emergency, as well as a place where people can charge phones and other essential devices.

While MERGE is still firming up its plans and building a resource database, its main focus so far has been connecting with existing satellite readiness groups to establish communication links that can help share information during emergencies.

Locals wanting to volunteer, sponsor equipment or services, or contribute to the committee are encouraged to get in touch.

Andrew Clearwater: arclearwater@hotmail.com