Hawke's Bay plunged into darkness as Cyclone Cook caused power outages and cancelled flights in and out of the region.

Today the clean up began.

Some roads are completely blocked - others are down to one lane.

Branches are strewn across Anderson Park and this tree had a close call with these houses across the road.

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Services have been hard at work since first light.

Plenty of locals have ventured out to see the aftermath - authorities are urging people to take extreme care.

The weather may have passed - but strong swells continue to surge - a reminder of last night's deluge.

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