‘Utter catastrophe’: Sam Neill expresses horror at Cyclone Gabrielle aftermath

Jurassic Park star Sam Neill has described the devastation wrought by Cyclone Gabrielle across New Zealand as an “utter catastrophe”.

In an online post uploaded before news broke that a second firefighter had died in Auckland’s Muriwai, Neill shared images of silt-laden homes, upturned vehicles and landslips to his 514,000 followers.

“It is now apparent that #CycloneGabrielle has been an utter CATASTROPHE,” he said.

“Our thoughts and sympathies are with those affected from Hawkes Bay to Northland, and our condolences to the families of the (so far) five dead.

“Absolutely dreadful. Take a look at these heart-rending shots,” he said before promising he would be donating to the fundraising efforts for victims of the cyclone and sharing a link to a campaign.

Neill’s followers were quick to follow suit, with many saying they too had contributed.

“Thanks for sending this out into the void. Wasn’t too sure where to point my support. You did good, Sam,” one said.