Getting out of deep water Westie-style

A makeshift 'ferry' transports Swanson residents across Tram Valley Rd. Photo / Dean Purcell

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Waitakere Civil Defence officials set up a makeshift "ferry" service yesterday when Tram Valley Rd in Swanson became flooded because of a blocked railway culvert.

The flood covered a 50m section and was 1m deep, said Graeme Chamberlin, who lives in one of the 30 homes without access.

Another resident, Enrico van der Griend, said his two teenagers were unable to get to school in their small car. Earlier, his wife, Jolien, was able to get to work in her sports utility vehicle. On her return the flood level was higher so she took a lift from the tractor.

A pump was operating last night to try to lower the water level so the road can reopen today. Council workers hope to be able to reach the culvert today to see what is blocking it.