A fallen tree blocks Homewood Road, in Riversdale, Wairarapa, after one of the storms in the last week of October. Photo: SUPPLIED/LDR
A spokesperson for insurer IAG described the region as having been 'hit hard', with claims in all four districts mostly relating to wind damage.
A total of 200 claims were made, with Masterton having the highest number at 60 - mostly from the weather event on 21 October. South Wairarapa was next highest at 56 claims, most from high winds on 23 October. Carterton property owners made 44 claims, and Tararua 40.
Damage to fences, gutters and sheds were most commonly reported.
A spokesperson for Carterton council confirmed a claim had been made for damage to the Wairarapa Event Centre's roof in Carterton. The damage meant a change of venue for a dance performance had been necessary.
Spokespeople for South Wairarapa and Masterton councils said they did not intend to make claims, with council property sustaining only minimal damage.
While there was damage to council property in Tararua, the estimated repair costs were below the council's insurance excess, and a claim was unlikely.
While Wairarapa had a large number of claims, a statement from IAG said the South Island had sustained the most significant damage.
AMI, State and NZI executive general manager for claims, Stephannie Ferris said the insurers had received more than 3,300 claims for weather and fire events in October. Claims were across home, contents, motor and commercial policies.
"From the significant, gale-force winds alone that mainly affected the Southland, Otago, Canterbury and Wellington regions, we have received 2209 claims," she said.
For all claims, including non-wind related storm damage, Canterbury policy holders made 481 claims, Southland 1,129, Otago 615, and Wellington 570. Across the rest of New Zealand 566 claims were lodged.
"Most of the damage we have seen has been caused by wind damage," she said.
"We've accepted claims for things like smashed windows and flying roofs."
She said insurers were able to help with things like emergency temporary accommodation, payment support for customers staying with family or friends, and help with lodging claims.
For land damaged in the weather event, the insurers could also lodge a claim with the natural hazards commission as part of an insurance claim.
Ferris said general advice for people whose property is damaged during a storm or by flooding is to first ensure they and their whānau are safe.
After that, people need to make a claim as soon as they are able to. This is especially the case where homes become uninhabitable or temporary accommodation is needed.
People should not return to their homes or businesses until it's safe to do so, she said.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
