Recovery continues: 'amazing mahi' being done to reconnect communities

From one problem to the next: Woody debris that collected at Gladstone Road Bridge heads down Turanganui River and out to sea where it is providing another challenge for local authorities as huge amounts wash up on city beaches — an inevitable occurrence after such storm events. A few large trees have become anchored close to shore while the beach from the Waikanae campground to as far as the eye can see is strewn with debris. A middle stretch of Midway and Waikanae has been groomed, allowing people to walk on it. The district remains in a state of emergency after ex-tropical Cyclone Hale's violent visit last week. Pictures by Liam Clayton

The district remains in a state of emergency as Gisborne District Council staff, contractors and the community continue the work to put the region back together again after last week's dramatic storm event.

Road crews were successful yesterday in getting Whareponga Road reopened to four-wheel-drive local traffic.

“Amazing mahi, team,” were the words from Civil Defence.

As of this morning 19 local roads still remained closed and 29 were 4WD only.

“We'll get expected resolution dates on those roads today,” Civil Defence said.

State Highway 35 was opened to day-time traffic on Saturday — 7am to 7pm each day — and that was still the situation today.

“Please adhere to the speed restrictions on State Highway 35 and local roads,” Civil Defence said. “Slow down. Speed is causing issues for roading crews out there doing the mahi. Police will be keeping an eye on speed.

“While SH35 is open between 7am and 7pm, take extreme care and check Waka Kotahi NZTA's website for up-to-date information, as conditions can change.”

“We're keeping an eye on the weather.

“Staff are monitoring a sub-tropical low forecast at this stage for Wednesday.”

The MetService predicts rain on Wednesday from the south-east, continuing into Thursday although easing during the day.

Gisborne District Council was asked this morning for an indication of what might be planned for the massive driftwood build-up again on the city beaches, and also about silt and debris build-up at the Anzac Park boat ramp.

The indication was there could be a response tomorrow.

Eastland Network yesterday dealt with more trees down, causing issues for crews.

As of yesterday afternoon 53 residents in Tauwhareparae were still without power and that remained a priority for the network.

At the time The Gisborne Herald went to print, no further update was available.

“Contact with the city's waterways is not advised due to the amount of debris and wastewater in the rivers.”

Temporary warning signs remain in place along the rivers and beaches.

“Please adhere to the messages and that includes no fishing, shellfish gathering, swimming or water recreation activities until the signs are removed or five days after the emergency valves have been closed,” Civil Defence said.

“A huge shout out to all the crews and volunteers who continue to do amazing mahi supporting and reconnecting our communities.”