Today CEO Julian Bowden has launched the second phase of the Equine Relief Fund that supports individual who have been adversely effected by the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle.  Firstly, we want to thank all those wonderful people here and abroad that have contributed to the Equine Relief Fund. The first stage of the distribution of this fund was to provide funding to businesses who were supporting equine welfare as a result of Cyclone Gabrielle. This provided funding of almost $120,000 to the local equine vets in Hawke’s Bay, feed suppliers in both Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne, as well as local riding schools and pony clubs whose equine care, health and safety had been affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Now that things have settled down a little, we believe we are at the next stage which is to look at supporting individuals who have been adversely affected by the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle. Therefore, we are pleased to be able to introduce ESNZ Gabrielle Support, the Equine Relief Fund for individuals to distribute the remaining $80,000.  Applications are now open and will be accepted for the next three weeks. 

How to apply:

The overarching aim of this fund is to support our equine community who have experienced extraordinary costs since 12 February in order to maintain equine welfare as a result of the Cyclone Gabrielle in the affected areas of the Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne regions.  Therefore, you need to show that your application is in direct response to the impact the Cyclone has had on your horses.  Please check the eligibility criteria, conditions and application process before you follow the link to the application form at the bottom of this page. 

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Individuals must be based in Cyclone Gabrielle affected regions
  • Only one application per individual/family

Conditions:  funding should be focused on one or more of the following equine welfare needs, with supporting evidence provided:

  • Feed – due to lack of grazing or hay supply
  • Vet bills – due to injury or illness directly related to the flood
  • Medical supplies – bandages, creams, ointments, supplements due to injury or illness
  • Farrier bills – hoof related problems, remedial hoof care
  • Fencing – damaged caused to equine fencing, installed to enable horses to be closer to home, or reduced costs of renting grazing paddocks

Application Process:

The application window will be open for three weeks only.  You must complete the simple application process and provide the relevant proof of equine welfare need.  This should include invoices, photographs, vet reports or any other documented evidence that is relevant.  A Gabrielle Support Equine Flood Relief Funding Panel will review all applications.  A decision will be made and communicated to the applicant within two weeks of applications closing at the latest.  Please note that we will do our best to cover everyone in need, however, we have limited funds and may not be able to fund the entire amount of your application.

Please return the application form to the following email [email protected]. before 5pm Friday, 12th May 2023.