Aerial survey continues today

Taranaki Civil Defence are today providing support to residents contacted during yesterday’s aerial survey across isolated areas of the region.

Aerial assessments are continuing today, across Tangahoe and Waitotara Valley, to reach residents in isolated areas.

Yesterday four helicopters flew over isolated pockets of south eastern Taranaki, from SH43 to Waitotara, until about 5.15pm. About 100 households estimated to remain isolated due to slips and closed roads.

Most people seemed to be coping, but about half a dozen families with urgent needs will receive food, water, medication, baby food and necessities today.

If people have urgent needs they should contact Civil Defence 0800 or call 111 for medical emergencies.

Taranaki remains in a state of emergency today following the heavy rainfall and flooding over the weekend. Many local rural roads in Taranaki are impassable because of slips, and some areas are still without power.

Across the region, people are advised to stay away from beaches, rivers and streams today because of potential contamination as a result of heavy rain and flooding. Boaties are also advised to be aware of flood debris that has been washed out to sea.

Update on Waitotara

Most residents have returned to their homes in Waitotara township, no homes remain under water. STDC health officers are assessing house and testing water supplies. Residents on bore water supply are advised to boil water. The streets are passable. An information centre for residents remains open at the Waitotara Hotel.

The road bridge to Waiinu Beach remains closed but there is alternative access across private land.

Assistance and donations

Taranaki Civil Defence is aware of a social media initiative calling for donations of household goods for those affected by the weekend weather.

While we acknowledge the organisers’ public-spiritedness and generosity, we must stress that cash is the most efficient and effective form of assistance for those affected by the emergency.

Experience has taught us that building up a stockpile of household goods creates more problems than it solves. It puts pressure on the logistics, manpower and finances of those responding to the emergency, and the goods themselves are often not what is most needed.

The immediate focus remains on assessing and responding to urgent needs. A relief fund will be set up in due course.

Authorised by
Civil Defence Group Controller David Lean

ENDS

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