Chief Ombudsman visits regions affected by recent extreme weather

The Chief Ombudsman, Peter Boshier, travelled to regions affected by extreme weather events in early 2023. He wanted to learn about the issues facing communities and grow awareness of services provided by the Ombudsman.

The targeted engagements covered Tairāwhiti and Hawkes Bay.

Mr Boshier who was born and educated in Gisborne was sad to see the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle in these two regions.

Over four days, the Ombudsman met with Iwi and council leaders, along with groups like Citizen’s Advice and Community Law in Gisborne, Wairoa, Napier and Hastings.

Mr Boshier says past experience shows that complaints to his office go up in the months after civil defence emergencies.