Body found identified, police say as flood recovery fund launched for Wellington families

Wellington is beginning the recovery from widespread flooding that hit the capital this week causing damage to homes, disruption across southern suburbs, and forcing some people to leave their properties.

Police have now confirmed the body found during the search in Karori is that of missing man Philip Sutton.

Inspector Fleur de Bes, Wellington District Prevention Manager, said: “Police are now able to advise the body found following the search in Karori has been formally identified as Philip Sutton.

“Our thoughts and sympathies are with Philip's family and friends at this difficult time.

“Philip's death has been referred to the Coroner.”

Police said the family has asked for privacy and their wishes should be respected.

As the city responds to the aftermath of the flooding, a $100,000 Mayoral Relief Fund has been launched to help those most affected.

The fund is a partnership between Wellington City Council and the Wellington City Mission and is now open for public donations.

Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little, right, and Wellington City Missioner Reverend Murray Edridge announce a $100,000 relief fund to support flood-affected residents.

Mayor Andrew Little said the support would help people facing urgent needs.

“As the extent of the effects on residents and damage to property have become clearer, it is clear that many residents need financial support to help them," he said in a statement.

“Our fellow Wellingtonians, our neighbours, need our support. Every little bit helps families in need.

“I’m encouraging everybody who is able to, to give support through the Mayoral Relief Fund, which has been set up in partnership between council and the Wellington City Mission.

“We’ve launched the Fund to get support out to the people who need it most, and quickly.

Floodwaters caused widespread damage across Wellington Region, forcing evacuations and leaving homes damaged. Photo/RNZ/video screengrab

“Make a donation to the Wellington City Mission by internet banking or credit card today,” Little said.

Donations can be made by internet banking to the Wellington City Mission (03-0547-0296036-17, account name “The Wellington City Mission Anglican Trust Board”, reference “Relief Fund”), or by credit card via wellingtoncitymission.org.nz/floodrelief.

Reverend Murray Edridge, of the Wellington City Mission, said the capital had already shown strong support but more would be needed in the weeks ahead.

“Wellington has a reputation for extraordinary generosity to support those in the community who are in trouble," his statement read.

"Our hearts have gone out to those impacted by this week’s floods and I am sure we will stand behind them in this recovery phase.”

Edridge says the Mission is also accepting donations of furniture, household goods and appliances, which must be dropped off at Whakamaru, 4 Oxford Terrace, Mount Cook, as collection is not available.

Since Monday, Whakamaru has been providing emergency support including food, hot drinks, showers, and temporary accommodation for people displaced by the flooding.

Council staff have been working alongside the Wellington City Mission, with support from central government agencies including MSD, Kāinga Ora and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

The relief fund follows a similar approach used after the Loafers Lodge fire in 2023, with all funds going directly to those affected.

As recovery efforts continue, attention is now turning to helping families rebuild and supporting communities\ still dealing with the impact of the flooding.