Rescuers return after pregnant woman trapped by flooding

A pregnant woman was stranded on the outskirts of Ruatoria after her home was isolated by flooding in the Mata River and nearby creeks and streams. Photo /File

A Ruatoria policeman and local resident have returned safely after tramping through flooded creeks and dense bush to get supplies to a pregnant woman trapped on the East Coast.

Police said concerns were raised about the woman, who is 20 weeks' pregnant and has two small children living with her, when wild weather set in on the East Cape yesterday.

The woman's home on the outskirts of Ruatoria was isolated by flooding in the Mata River and nearby creeks and streams.

When bad weather prevented a helicopter rescue, Ruatoria constable Boycie Poi and a local volunteered to tramp through the forestry, hills and flooded creeks to check on the woman and her family.

They arrived at her house yesterday evening after hiking 6km cross-country carrying enough generator fuel and food to supply the family for three days.

The pair stayed the night at her house and began their trek back to Ruatoria this morning - arriving back at about 1pm.

Mr Poi said the hike "had its moments", with both men having to wade through water up to their thighs in some places.

However, they were never in any real danger, he said.

"We both know the area very well so we knew what to expect."

Mr Poi said the woman and her children were safe and well and the property was not in danger of flooding.

Police would reassess their situation tomorrow and if necessary, arrange for them to be evacuated.

Senior Sergeant Maui Aben of Gisborne police said Mr Poi's efforts went beyond the call of duty.

"This is just one example of how police respond to emergency situations - where they can sometimes put their own lives at risk for the sake of others. Boycie and his companion made a very brave and commendable effort to make sure people were safe."

Storms have set in on the East Coast, with heavy rain causing numerous flooding problems and power cuts last night.

The Mata River was not expected to drop in the short term and the Ruatoria township was on standby for any further flooding issues.

There had been no other reports of trapped locals.