Speak up if you need help

Northland's post-storm mop-up was making good progress yesterday, at least in terms of infrastructure, including roading, water and power, with a continuing emphasis on meeting the welfare needs of those worst affected.

Northland Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group spokesman Graeme MacDonald said people who needed assistance were being urged to make themselves known to those who could help. In the Far North, anyone whose home was flooded or who urgently needed accommodation, food, heating, clothing or medical supplies should phone Far North District Council's on 0800 920-029 in the first instance.

Officials were continuing to work with flood-affected families in the Moerewa area, where firefighters had worked until about 11.30pm on Sunday, pumping out about 1200 cubic metres of water. Waste collection and temporary toilets had been provided, and building inspectors were continuing to visit properties.

The opening of a temporary 'one-stop shop' for flood victims staffed by multiple agencies was also under consideration in Kawakawa.

Mr MacDonald added that most power connections in the region had been restored, Top Energy (0800 867-363) was asking those who were still waiting to make contact.

As of late yesterday morning Top Energy still had about 200 customers without power. Some of those people would be facing the prospect of several more days without power, and the company would be working with the FNDC and others to make sure their welfare needs were being met.

Top Energy had also repeated earlier advice that downed power lines should be treated as live at all times, and should be reported them to ensure they were logged for repairs.

Meanwhile the region's state highway network was open yesterday morning bar SH1 south of Kawakawa. Traffic was being diverted on to Mangakahia Road. The alternative route, through Ruapekapeka Road, was open only to light vehicles.

Mr MacDonald said the NZTA was working on a diversion around the slip site but that could take at least five days to complete. A longer-term solution could take months.

Information about council roads and state highways was available at www.AAroadwatch.co.nz or www.nzta.govt.nz

The Rural Support Trust (0800 787-254) was working to support flood-affected farmers and horticulturists whose crops had been damaged, but recovery was still in its early stages, and officials were still working to get a more accurate assessment of the likely cost of the storm, one of the most damaging to hit the region in years.