State Highway 1 in Whakapara was the most significantly damaged in Whangārei, council says. Photo / NZ Transport Agency
State Highway 1 in Whakapara was the most significantly damaged in Whangārei, council says. Photo / NZ Transport Agency
Whangārei’s state of emergency was lifted today as conditions across the district have improved.
As of 12.30pm, Whangārei officially moved into a 28-day recovery phase.
The decision to lift the state of emergency was made this morning following consultation with regional leaders, emergency services, and welfare support agencies.
WDC Civil Defence Emergency Operations Centre controller John Burt said the district had fared relatively well compared to other weather events this year.
“There have been a few slips on local roads, but nothing compared to the January event. Most of the issues people experienced were around surface flooding.”
Burt said the most significant damage was on State Highway 1 at Whakapara.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is expected to provide updates about the repairs to the highway.
A pilot vehicle guides traffic on the Kaiikanui Rd detour. Photo / Susan Botting
The detour will close for a short time later this week for storm repairs. The council says any changes to the pilot schedule will be published on its website and on local Facebook pages.
Work to clear the Russell Rd slip restarted today.
The council said the weather caused sewage overflows throughout the district and people should not collect shellfish for the next 28 days.
Burt, on behalf of the council, thanked the community for its co-operation and preparedness during last week’s torrential rains and strong winds.
The council praised its roading contractors who cleared slips and trees and closed roads to keep people safe.
“... And our emergency responders who were called on to rescue people trapped in cars during the event,” Burt said.
“We’d also like to acknowledge our local marae who once again opened their doors to whānau who needed a safe space to shelter.”
The council said recovery work from the January weather event was ongoing, and any additional issues identified from this weather event will be added to that work.
“While the immediate emergency response phase is ending, anyone who still requires assistance or have ongoing needs related to this event is encouraged to contact council. A recovery team is in place to provide support.”
Far North District Council (FNDC) declared a precautionary state of emergency on Thursday that is still in place.
“As flood waters recede it is emerging today that the severe weather has had a significant impact across the entire Far North,” the council said.
Focus areas for the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), based at the council headquarters in Kaikohe, are communities in Mitimiti, Pawarenga, Panguru, Whirinaki, Takahue and Kaitāia.
