Taupo Plains - Power could be out for few weeks, Unison considers alternate solutions

Unison Networks’ has advised that some customers in the Taupo Plains could be without power for a few weeks, and therefore the Company was looking at alternative solutions.

“Access continues to inhibit our restoration programme even getting underway, and we are uncovering more damage by foot, by 4WD, and by helicopter.

“Based on this, and new damage becoming apparent by the day, we predict some customers could be without power for a few weeks. Therefore, we’ve been reaching out to affected customers directly to look at alternative solutions, including generation.”

He said Unison’s community meeting today at the Rangitaiki Tavern was very timely and saw about 40 locals in attendance, alongside representatives from Taupo District Council, Civil Defence, Federated Farmers, the Ministry of Social Development, Police, and media.

The local community understood the extent of what Unison was facing, and the severity of the damage, he said.

“They are there; they can see what has happened to our network and the significance of the damage. They are facing similar access issues around their farms, limiting their ability to get to their stock, and in and out to the main road.”

He said Unison spoke to those customers in attendance about the network damage so far, ahead of full access being available to the worst hit areas.

“It is no easy feat. This is a massive restoration effort. We are going to throw all we can at it, but the damage is severe and it will take time. We want to look at what alternatives are available with that in mind.

“Also, following today’s meeting, we will be joining in a daily meeting with locals, Civil Defence, the Community Constable and other support organisations as needed. It’s important that we all rally together to be keep information and support fluid.”

Rural Hawke’s Bay – More customers restored, but some could be without power until weekend

After today’s efforts on the ground, Unison advised now about 100 customers had been restored in total, leaving approximately 100 still without.

Progress was steady, advised Relationship Manager Danny Gough, but today’s efforts were challenged by difficult terrain and heavy snow in some parts.

“The terrain is really rugged in some areas, and also heavy snow was a huge factor for our guys today – meaning some customers could be without power until the weekend,” he said.

“We are talking now with directly affected customers and considering alternative solutions. We are focused on getting customers back with power and doing everything we can out there in rough conditions to make that happen.”

ENDS

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