Wairoa District Council is monitoring the impact of the overnight heavy rainfall.

Civil Defence Controller Juanita Savage said there have been FENZ-assisted evacuations from Nuhaka properties and from vehicles on the road near the chapel at Nuhaka.

“Ten people have been evacuated to, six to Tanenuiarangi Marae in Nuhaka and the balance to their whanau.  A further evacuation centre has been established in town at the War Memorial Hall, but this has not been needed.

“Overnight, highways into Wairoa were closed, but they have now been re-opened this morning.

There has been extensive surface flooding, closing some streets in Nuhaka and also Karaka Street in town. Some schools and early childhood centres have chosen to close.

Flooding and slips have closed roads with contractors heading to the following sites: Mangapoike Road, Mahia East Coast Road, Glenbrook Road, Waihua Valley Road, Tiniroto Road, Kinikini Road and Mahanga Road.

The Wairoa River levels are being monitored and the bar is open, and the river flowing freely.

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little is assuring communities that the situation is being monitored, and even though the orange heavy rain warning has been lifted, Council staff will continue to be out and about checking on conditions.

“Since Cyclone Gabrielle, heavy rain events naturally increase anxiety. Our district is still recovering from the February cyclone, and this amount of rain in a short timeframe can be a scary time for people. We have had reports of areas of the district receiving rainfall of between 150 and 200mm overnight.

“If you can, please stay home, stay off the roads, and stay safe. If you have to travel please check journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic and the Wairoa District Council website.”

“If you are feeling unsafe please call 111 immediately.”

8 November 2023

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