Retailers in New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, have been told to prepare for more heavy rain and possible floods as Cyclone Gabrielle nears the coast.
In late January record rainfall in Auckland and the surrounding areas led to flooding which took the lives of four people and caused extensive property damage.
Retail NZ CEO Greg Harford said that retailers have been redirecting efforts to local communities.
“Retailers across Auckland have been impacted by the recent flooding in different ways. Many have experienced flooding or leaks, or have had staff directly impacted,” he told Ragtrader.
“This has meant a clean-up of stores, supporting staff with leave or changes in shifts, and liaison with insurance and trades. Many retailers have been stepping up to support impacted communities by supplying food to food banks, undertaking workplace fundraisers or ensuring they are open to supply essential goods.”
Among those quick to lend their support was Michaell Hill International with CEO Daniel Bracken confirming a donation of $50,000 to Auckland’s City Mission flood response.
“Across the years we’ve celebrated many milestones with our customers, however we recognise that being there through the challenging times is just as integral,” Bracken said.
“The flood devastation in Auckland, Northland and the Coromandel has placed many Kiwis in an incredibly tough situation and we applaud the amazing work of groups like Auckland City Mission. We hope this donation will help the organisation provide much-needed assistance in the flood recovery efforts.”
Based in Brisbane, Michael Hill was founded in the New Zealand town of Whangarei in 1979.
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