The occupation lasted three weeks. Photo / George Heard
The occupation lasted three weeks. Photo / George Heard
Fifty businesses have received relief payments after the "devastating" disruption they faced during the 23-day occupation at Parliament.
Earlier this year part of Wellington was brought to a standstill as anti-mandate protesters set up camp and took over streets, forcing some businesses to close completely.
A $1.2 million relief fund was established by Wellington City Council and the Government for those who had experienced at least a 50 per cent drop in their revenue.
The council has revealed today that 50 businesses have received payments totalling $974,600.
Eighteen received the maximum one-off payment of $30,000 including The Backbencher, Mojo, Thorndon Chippery, and Thistle Inn.
The relief payments have been made over the past two months and recognise the severe disruption caused during the occupation, which was brought to a fiery end on March 2.
An aerial photo on Saturday shows the scale of the protest. Photo / George Heard
Council economic wellbeing and CCOs manager Anna Calver said the occupation was devastating for many businesses in the area.
"They were either forced to shut completely or suffered massive downturns in custom due to the disruption and intimidation associated with the protest."
A total of 91 businesses applied for the payment and a further seven may still receive payments from what's left of the fund, if they provide documents to support their claims.
The council contributed $1 million to the fund while the Government paid $200,000.
A panel of senior council staff, assisted by an independent financial consultant, used a set of criteria to determine which businesses qualified for payments.
Calver said the panel exercised discretion regarding the location of some businesses which applied for payments.
"Clearly there were instances where the impact of the occupation was felt more than in other parts of the city."
For example, one business in Victoria St received a grant because it was adjacent to the central police station.
The business suffered significant revenue cuts due to the constant presence of protesters in the vicinity.
