16 February 2004 Media Statement

Civil Defence dealing well with bad weather impact

Civil Defence staff at local and regional councils are dealing well the impact of recent severe weather conditions, Civil Defence and Emergency Management Minister George Hawkins says.

Emergency services and Civil defence staff in Rangitikei, Manawatu and the Wellington region were kept busy throughout last night dealing with severe weather that battered the lower part of the North Island.

Civil Defence emergencies have been declared in the Manawatu and Rangitikei districts, but Mr Hawkins said with the support of police, volunteers, fire and defence, local and regional council Civil Defence staff are dealing well with the situation.

About 450 people evacuated from their homes in Manawatu and Rangitikei districts, and about 600 people in the Hutt area.

"There continue to be problems with access to some of these areas but we are pleased that there are no reports of injuries at this stage," Mr Hawkins said.

The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency continues to monitor the situation from its National Emergency Operations Centre in Wellington, Mr Hawkins said.

ENDS

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