The New Zealand Christian Network (NZCN) has issued a nationwide call to prayer following a series of severe weather events that have battered the Nelson Tasman region in recent months, leaving widespread damage, displacing families, and straining local resources.
In its July 21 newsletter, the NZCN urged Christians across the country to pray for affected communities, recovery workers, and local churches helping in the aftermath of what officials have described as a once-in-a-century flood.
“The rains have caused widespread damage to homes, farms, roads, and forests,” the NZCN update said. “Dozens remain in emergency accommodation, and many schools and childcare centers are still closed.”
Nelson and Tasman, on the South Island’s northwest, have been under an official state of emergency after three successive weather events since late May. Torrential rains repeatedly flooded rivers, destroyed infrastructure, damaged homes and farms, and left thousands without power.
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said the region had endured “repeated torrential rain events” over two months, with the most recent on July 11 forcing authorities to reinstate the emergency declaration just days after lifting it. Power cuts affected about 13,000 homes, and widespread wind damage felled trees and closed state highways.
Despite the destruction, Smith praised the “hard work and unity” shown by emergency services, iwi (Māori tribes), volunteers, and local councils. A Mayoral Relief Fund, launched jointly by Smith and Tasman District Mayor Tim King, has so far raised NZ$180,000 (about USD 107,000) to assist those impacted.
The NZCN highlighted key areas for prayer, including displaced families, emotional and mental health needs, strength for recovery workers, and resilience for local churches and community groups offering practical and spiritual support. The network also called for prayer over urgent infrastructure repairs and long-term protections against future flooding.
Local churches, including groups like FIRST72, have mobilized to provide meals, shelter, and pastoral care. Volunteers such as the Student Volunteer Army are helping coordinate cleanup and aid distribution.
Smith has acknowledged that improvements are needed in disaster preparedness, including better rain radar coverage, improved mobile networks with backup systems, and major flood protection investments like the planned NZ$6 million Maitai River project.
For the NZCN, the crisis is not just a local matter but a national call to compassion and prayer. “Pray for wisdom, resources, and unity as they serve their communities,” the network urged supporters, as the region continues its long road to recovery.
