Wayward balloon caused power trip

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

A party in Poplar Street yesterday went off with more bang than expected, ending with power going out at thousands of homes.

“A helium-filled foil party balloon drifted into lines on Poplar St and caused them to short,” an Eastland Network spokeswoman said.

“This tripped out a feeder.

“The trip happened at 7.46pm on Wednesday night and the power went out to 7300 customers across Gisborne city.

“Power was restored to everyone before 8pm.

“Fortunately, no one was injured.

“This is a reminder to be careful around lines at all times, and to make sure no loose objects come into contact with them.”

To report any issues with power, call the Eastland Network 24/7 faults line on 0800 206 207. And stay up to date by following the Eastland Network Facebook page.