A group of senior government ministers will meet Tai Rāwhiti iwi, business, council and community leaders this morning in a summit to break down the challenges facing the region.
More than 100 people are expected at the hui, just over a year on from Cyclone Gabrielle.
Social and economic issues are top of the agenda, with the goal to develop a "future action plan" for the region.
Gisborne mayor Rehette Stoltz spoke to Corin Dann.