An aerial photo showing extensive flooding in Brightwater, near Nelson. Photo / Supplied
An aerial photo showing extensive flooding in Brightwater, near Nelson. Photo / Supplied
A person has died after being hit by a tree while clearing floodwaters near Nelson.
Acting Nelson Bays area commander Senior Sergeant Martin Tunley said the incident happened at Wai-iti, southeast of Wakefield, this morning.
“Around 9.40am, emergency services were called to a property on State Highway 6 aftera person was reportedly hit by a tree while clearing flood damage.”
Despite efforts by emergency services, the person died at the scene, Tunley said.
Smith said the death had been notified by police but further information on the person’s identity would not released until all next of kin had been notified.
“We were notified of this tragedy at the Emergency Operations Centre this morning. It is the worst news with everyone working so hard to try to keep people safe in these events.
“Our hearts and condolences go out to the family and wider community on this loss.”
Flooding on SH6 Kotahu where the Motueka River has flooded. Photo / NZTA
The incident follows several days of torrential rain that sparked widespread flooding and evacuations.
States of emergency were declared in both Marlborough and Tasman districts as floodwaters triggered slips and closed roads.
Dozens of households were forced to evacuate on Friday due to rising floodwaters in the regions.
Overnight, the Motueka Emergency Assistance and Information Centre assisted 16 people, housed three and provided alternative accommodation to six others.
“The number of people who self-evacuated to friends and family is unknown at this stage,” Nelson Tasman Civil Defence said.
Dozens of flights were disrupted due to the wild weather and tornadoes damaged properties in Auckland and Taranaki.
