Hanmer Springs residents are being celebrated for their resilience and bravery after a violent storm tore through the alpine village last week, leaving widespread damage just days before one of the region’s biggest annual events.

Among those praised is Hanmer Springs Health Centre Practice Manager Paul Walmsley, who braved dangerous conditions to retrieve emergency medical gear from a clinician stranded behind fallen trees.

Walmsley said he simply did what anyone in his community would have done.

“It was pretty bad out there. Trees were blocking the road, and there was debris everywhere, but that medical gear was essential,” he said.

Locals who nominated him for the town’s “local hero” award said he worked tirelessly to ensure his staff were safe and that medical care continued for those who needed it.

“He does a lot of background work but rarely takes any credit. He went out in terrible weather to retrieve emergency gear when the clinician was stuck because of fallen trees. That takes bravery,” one local said.

The storm ripped trees from the ground, tore roofs from homes and sent fence posts flying through the air, smashing windows during what many described as the scariest windstorm they had experienced.

In the aftermath, the Hanmer Springs community pulled together to clean up the damage ahead of the Hanmer Springs Fête and Hurunui Garden Festival, which runs until Sunday.

Farmers used machinery to restore access routes, while volunteer firefighters, contractors and residents worked around the clock to clear debris. Others offered warm meals and shelter to neighbours whose homes were damaged.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa General Manager and Hanmer Springs Business Association board member Sarah Wiblin said the number of nominations for the local hero award had been overwhelming.

“The emails and messages flooded in with some incredible stories. We were just blown away. It’s things like this that make me so proud to be part of this community,” Wiblin said.

Another local nominated for the award was firewood business owner Daniel Bryant, who was out early the morning after the storm using his loader to clear fallen trees from the roads.

“It was a very high-risk job, but Daniel got stuck in, no questions asked. He was out there clearing roads all day and late into the night so people could safely get through,” a local said.

Despite the storm’s impact, the Hanmer Springs Fête and Hurunui Garden Festival have gone ahead as planned, with organisers keen to show visitors the village is open and thriving.

Wiblin said the weekend festivities would go ahead thanks to the tireless efforts of locals.

“We’ve seen people working incredibly hard to restore the town after a very difficult few days. The community spirit here really is something special,” she said.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is offering a special $25 single adult entry this weekend for festival attendees.

Hurunui District Mayor Marie Black said the response from locals reflected the strength of the community.

“Neighbours are helping one another, businesses are stepping up, and volunteers are working around the clock to get the region back on its feet. We’re excited to welcome visitors back for our weekend festivities that celebrate everything we love about our region,” Black said.

Visitors can enjoy boutique shopping, local food and entertainment at the historic Queen Mary Hospital grounds as part of the Hanmer Springs Fête, or explore gardens and art across the district during the Hurunui Garden Festival.

Wiblin said attending the events was not just a great day out but also a way to support the local recovery effort.

“By attending, visitors will not only enjoy a fantastic weekend out, they’ll also be helping to support local operators and contribute to the community’s recovery,” she said.