1 February 2018

Latest update: Hokitika power outage

This update follows our earlier release regarding a power outage affecting Hokitika and the surrounding area.

Our crews are still assessing the extent of the storm damage to transmission lines supplying the area. The extreme weather conditions, combined with access issues getting to site, are making it difficult to establish the extent and cause of the damage to our assets.

Our best estimate is that it may take up to 48 hours for full power supply to be restored to all parts of the region.

Westpower has confirmed they may be able to secure backup supply for some essential services this evening – an update on this option will be made available by 7pm this evening.

This means residents and businesses in the area should be prepared to be without power until Saturday 3 February, until advised otherwise.

We will continue to supply updates as our crews complete their inspections on site.

There is never a good time for communities to be without power, and we apologise for the inconvenience. Our priority is restoring power to the area as soon, and as safely, as possible.

We will continue to provide further updates on our Facebook page.

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