As flooding causes several businesses to close in Wānaka's main street, the question of cost has become an ongoing concern. Payment of rent, staff and water damage are all factors that businesses have to deal with whilst shops remain sealed off. 

Ignite Wānaka says: “It's day by day at the moment but yes it's likely going to have an impact on some businesses' short-term income being closed over the last three or so days.” 

Some businesses have plans in place for such events whilst some have chosen to regroup, and hold much-needed staff parties or training over their days of closure. Whilst getting things back up and running is a pressing matter for everyone involved, safety and protecting premises remains first priority. Patagonia was a storefront particularly targeted by the flooding, so much so that a temporary dam was erected outside the store in an effort to protect the business thanks to efforts by the landlord Peter Bowmar and neighbours from the Lake Bar. The chocolate shop thinks it's too soon to know whether the costs of the closure will impact long-term, and said, “We have not had the ability to make an estimation yet, we are currently focused on ensuring our team and our assets are safe.” 

All of their staff are still employed and being paid as per their individual agreements. They're not sure when they can reopen although, “would love to think of Saturday [14th] as a possible opening day” but in the meantime wants to extend a big thanks to the community and clients who have offered help. 

If you want to support your local businesses in this time, Ignite Wānaka says: “Wānaka is open for business and while some businesses are closed, many are still open and we encourage people to support where they can. Some have online stores so you can order online, others you can support when they re-open.”