First off, I would like to welcome the support and assistance that our Government is providing to local communities. Ashburton, Hinds, and the rural areas around mid-Canterbury, including Ashburton, have been particularly hard hit as well as areas around the Waimakariri District. I'd like to join with the Deputy Prime Minister in acknowledging the extraordinary response of the local community, the first responders, emergency and management staff, the volunteer fire brigades, and those who have been out in the pouring rain and cold repairing power lines and ensuring that local infrastructure holds up, and the friends, families, and neighbours who have come together to offer others a safe sanctuary or the simple pleasure of a warm cup of tea and a hot shower. 