Children sent home early as rain persists

Rural children across the Gisborne district have been sent home early and dozens of homes are without power today as rain continues to lash the region.

Gisborne Civil Defence controller Jon Davies says the area between Ruatoria and Tolaga Bay is currently the worst affected after more than 150mm of rain fell overnight.

“The Uawa River at Willow Flat, just north of Tolaga Bay, was close to nine metres late this morning and we are expecting it to top 11 metres with at least another 150mm of rain expected through until tomorrow morning. Thunderstorms are expected tomorrow afternoon.

“A lot of the rural schools are closed across the region and all of the children in the city who usually go by home by rural bus were being sent home early this afternoon.”

East land Network was today working to restore power to homes from Lottin Point, Hicks Bay, Waikura Valley and Te Puia Springs through to Rakauroa, west of Gisborne city. People are asked to call 0800 206 207 to report any faults.

Several roads are closed including Tauwhareparae Road at Tolaga Bay and in the Ngatapa Valley, with more expected if the rain continues at the same level.

ENDS

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