Mayor's column – Shifting from response to recovery
Published on 09 February 2026
A fortnightly column by Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper.
Working together with purpose
Last week, as the Hikurangi - Coastal Ward moved out of the State of Emergency, I was reminded of how important our relationships are across the District and the wider region.
The past few weeks have tested our communities and our infrastructure, but they have also highlighted the strength that comes from working together with purpose.
Shifting from immediate response to recovery marks an important step forward, and I want to acknowledge everyone who has played a role in helping our communities through this challenging period.
Over the past fortnight, I have spent time with many of the marae, community leaders and Government agencies involved in the response. Their leadership has been critical.
The community hui held across the District, supported by hapū and local Civil Defence teams, ensuring that support reached the whānau and neighbourhoods that needed it most.
These hui were not just operational, they were grounded in partnership, connection and shared responsibility. This collaboration is exactly what makes Northland resilient.
We must also acknowledge the people of Whangaruru South, Ōakura, Ohawini and Whangaruru North. Their resilience has been impressive, as has their willingness to help each other out.
It’s been special to see the response play out at the community level, including all the fantastic work done by the ratepayer associations.
It goes without saying that we feel deeply for the Ōakura Hall Committee, who had put such huge effort into restoring and maintaining a key community asset prior to the storm.
Waitangi Day commemorations
Last week, I was at Waitangi as part of the commemorations around Waitangi Day. It was an opportunity to reflect on the significance of our shared history, but also to strengthen our relationships with iwi and hapū across Te Tai Tokerau.
The kōrero there built on the partnerships we have seen in action during the recent weather event. Whether in a Civil Defence centre or at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the message is the same; enduring relationships are essential to our future.
Working with Central Government
Strengthening these relationships is also vital as we work with Central Government. Northland’s challenges, whether they involve infrastructure, resilience or community wellbeing, can only be addressed if local knowledge and central support are aligned.
Over the past few weeks, we have seen a strong willingness from agencies to collaborate and support local efforts. Continuing that partnership will be crucial as we move from response into recovery and begin planning for long-term resilience.
A stronger, more connected future
As we navigate the early weeks of 2026, I remain optimistic. The dedication of our emergency teams, the leadership shown by hapū and marae, the response of community groups, and the willingness of agencies to work together all point toward a stronger, more connected future for the District.
Our commitment remains clear, to stand alongside our communities, to build meaningful partnerships, and to work together for a resilient Northland.