Ruapehu civil defence response now in recovery mode

Ruapehu civil defence is now in recovery mode following the storm event on Thursday last week (8 Mar) that caused significant damage to roads and farm infrastructure in parts of the district.

The storm cut-off road access to the Blue Duck lodge at Whakahoro on the Retaruke River requiring 112 people to be evacuated by helicopter on Friday.

Ruapehu Mayor Don Cameron said that over the weekend Council undertook a helicopter review of the damage to farms and roads in affected areas around the district.

“While the path of the storm event was quite narrow where it did track it has caused significant damage with multiple large slips destroying farm fencing, tracks, culverts and district roads,” he said.

“Council has assisted with the flying in of water tanks, culverts, food and other supplies to affected areas where necessary.

Current estimates is that the storm has caused around $1m in damage to local roads.

The Kaiwhakauka and Mangapurua sections of the Mountains to Sea cycle track have storm damage however the rest of the track is operational.

Mountain bikers should obtain the latest track information before setting out.

Any farmers in need of assistance should call Council on 06 385 8364 or 07 895 8188 to register their situation with us.

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