One hundred cyclone-affected families from Hawke's Bay, Tairawhiti and Muriwai have begun arriving in Rotorua to receive the ultimate gift of a free mini-break.
In a whole-community response led by Rotorua Trust, Manaaki Rotorua was set up to welcome nominated families to the region courtesy of tourism and hospitality providers who've donated vouchers to the value of $100,000.
"This is Rotorua's way of saying 'aroha to you, be our guest' and we understand how difficult it's been," said Manaaki Rotorua project lead Melanie Short.
"We had some of our major players in Rotorua who said 'yes I'm in', they see it as a way to give back to New Zealanders who have supported us in this region through the COVID times."
Over 70 restaurants, accommodation providers and attractions have stepped up to offer each nominated family freebies during their two-night, three-day getaway.
Manaaki Rotorua said to be able to offer families like Dave and Sheryl Mackie's from Pakowhai, Hawke's Bay has been "really rewarding and quite emotional when you call because initially, they are quite stunned".
The Mackies have been gifted a break at the home of Rotorua resident Sarah Dewes, whose own father lost his family home in the Eskdale floods of 1924.
"We are just so grateful, it just means we can get away for a few days and not have to worry about things you know, to get off the orchard to get away from the silt," Dave said.
Wife Sheryl told Newshub the family is "still living in a caravan and probably will be for another year" after floodwaters wiped out their home and apple, plum, kiwifruit and peach orchard.
"Every day little things happen that bring it back every day you face hurdles every day you battle to get your normal life back," she said.
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said her city is well-known for opening its heart with manaakitanga or hospitality, it's been doing it for generations.
"All the businesses involved have opened up their doors and there's a lot of volunteer work that's gone on behind Manaaki Rotorua, so this is just about giving back and making sure people can feel a bit of hope and a bit of happiness once again," she told Newshub.
Rest and recovery needed by so many, as the pain of Gabrielle lingers on.
