Stand together with Hawke’s Bay in black and white

On Thursday, April 6, the community is invited to show solidarity with everyone in Hawke’s Bay as it recovers from the devastating effects of Cyclone Gabrielle by busting out the black and white; the official colours of the region. 

“Hawke’s Bay Together in Black and White” aims to bring the Hawke’s Bay community together, united in both sadness and strength to repair the region and support its people.

Initiated by local residents Sophie McHardy and Codee Wilkins, with assistance from Hastings District Council, all the region’s councils, schools, sports, and business organisations are working together to spread the message of togetherness, solidarity and support for Hawke’s Bay.
Local media companies have also banded together to support the initiative with free advertising to help share the message far and wide.

Sophie said that she felt the swell of camaraderie in her community and wanted to find a way for everyone to come together and show solidarity with others in the region as the journey to recovery unfolds.

 “I was hearing stories from those working in response in the days and weeks following the cyclone who were seeing first-hand the devastation caused to people’s lives in Hawke’s Bay. I felt the need to do something to support our region and its people, bringing everyone together, whilst also providing a platform for people to continue to support the Hawke’s Bay Disaster Relief Fund Trust through donations.”

Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst said Hastings District Council was pleased to be involved.

“We want to help our communities any way we can, big or small, so supporting this initiative was an easy decision. Our councillors and staff will proudly wear black and white on Thursday, April 6, to show our support.”

There are plenty of ways that people can get on board, from black and white mufti days, to decorating shop fronts, tying ribbons around your letterbox, or simply wearing black and white to work for the day. Everyone can get involved, whether out of region or within Hawke’s Bay.   It all counts, and any funds raised for the various regional cyclone funds will be greatly received.

Deposits can be made to any of the regional cyclone related funds. Find details here.

Donate to Hawke’s Bay Relief Fund Trust by texting GIVE to 2923 to make an instant $3 donation.

Web page: www.hawkesbaytogether.co.nz

24 March 2023

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