Call to avoid Flooded Areas
Civil Defence in Palmerston North is calling on sightseers not to go looking for areas of flooding in the city.

They say their work to address the level of surface water in the city is being hampered by sightseers and motorists driving through areas cordoned off by the City Council and their contractor.

Heavy rain throughout the lower North Island has caused widespread flooding with Manawatu District, Rangitikei, Tararua and Wanganui badly hit.

Civil Defence Duty Officer, Jock Robinson, says Palmerston North city has been spared the worst of the heavy downpour with only surface flooding being reported in some areas.

Wherever possible it is being pumped out of streets and properties but Civil Defence authorities are having to wait for the waterways to drop.

The floodgates south of the city have been opened allowing the Manawatu River to flow more quickly. The river is expected to peak at about 2pm this afternoon.

Horizons Regional Council is responsible for waterways in and around the city and activated its Emergency Response Centre late last night to handle the problems in neighbouring local authorities.

The City Council advises that the Awapuni Landfill is closed today because of surface flooding on the access road however the normal Monday rubbish collection will take place although it could be a little later.

There will be no Monday rubbish collection in Manawatu District and Rangitikei District Councils. The City Council is contracted to do this work but it cannot access many of the rural areas. As of 10am all roads from Palmerston North to Feilding were closed which has denied assistance that the city can give to Manawatu District however the army and airforce is helping Civil Defence staff in those local authorities.

The City Council is asking people to exercise patience and responsibility as staff address the key problem areas.

ENDS

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