Still danger at Central Hawke's Bay beaches

MED201148

28/01

To be released Immediately 12 May 2011

Dead stock and unstable slips are just two reasons to be very careful when accessing Central Hawke's Bay beaches especially Pourerere, Aramoana, Parimahu and Blackhead beaches after the recent major flood event.

Central Hawke's Bay District Council Emergency Management Officer, Bruce Kitto, said that people were trying to go for walks or attempting to take their vehicles along the beaches which could be very dangerous.

"We can't stop people from going to these beaches, however, there are unstable slips to negotiate, dead stock, and piles of driftwood which pose a hazard. We're worried that people may get caught in unfamiliar surroundings and stranded by incoming tides or land movement. We're advising people to just keep clear of those places until things are safe."

Central Hawke's Bay District Council has been working with the East Coast Rural Support Trust, MAF, Ministry of Social Development, and HB Regional Council to support the people hardest-hit in the floods.

A Central Hawke's Bay Mayoral Relief Fund has been set up and donations may be made by contacting Council on 06 857 8060.

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