11 April 2018

10.20am

Storm clean-up underway around Auckland region

Around a quarter of properties in the Auckland region are without power this morning following last night’s storm.

120,000 properties are currently without power and power companies are working to restore this.

Auckland Council and partner agencies are prioritising making sites safe and securing damaged trees and debris to make it easier to restore power.

Residents should call 09 301 0101 to report trees down on public land and around the roading network. Care must be taken around downed power lines.

Auckland Emergency Management Director John Dragicevich says contractors have been out all night to remove trees that are impeding power restoration work.

“We are working quickly to determine the full extent of the damage from last night’s storm.

“We will be prioritising cleaning up trees that have damaged power lines and clearing the roads from any storm debris that will impede traffic flow.

“Emergency Services received over 1600 calls over night as a result of this event. If you or your property is at risk, call 111.

“Take extra care when travelling and drive to the conditions.”

On your property

Green waste shouldn’t go in your rubbish bin. If you find any green waste or organic debris on your property, we recommend contacting your local garden waste company, who can arrange for a collection. Alternatively, people can take this waste to their local transfer station or community recycling centre. Further details can be found on the council’s website.

If your property is damaged, call 111 in an emergency.

Transport:

Follow Auckland Transport and NZTA for up to date travel information.

Motorways are open, as is the majority of the roading network.

The following local roads are closed: Pine Ave between Parrs Cross Rd loops, Henderson; Woodside Ave, Massey; Maskell St, St Heliers; Temple St, Meadowbank and Gillies Ave, between Kohia Tce and Kimberley near Balmoral. Roads partially blocked: corner Charles Rd and Glenbrook Rd, Karaka and corner of Marne Rd and Settlement Rd, Papakura.

The harbourmaster is currently dealing with seven vessels that have come ashore around the region.

Rail services

Western Line:

All Western Line services will start and terminate at Henderson operating on a 20 Minute frequency

Rail Buses are operating between Henderson and Swanson

Eastern Line:

Services reinstated operating on a 20-30 minute frequency

Southern Line:

Services suspended between Papakura and Puhinui

Southern Line operating to/from Manukau on a 30 minute frequency

Scheduled buses in place between Manukau and Papakura

Pukekohe Shuttle:

Services are operating, with delays

Diesel services will operate from Pukekohe to Otahuhu

Onehunga Line:

Services are operating with minor delays

All services will continue to operate with 6 car sets throughout the day

Many stations don’t have power, which is affecting station displays and public announcements.

Ferry and bus services are operating but there may be delays.

Auckland Council Pools and Leisure:

Some centres will be closed today or opening later this morning. If anyone is planning to visit their local pool, please call the facility first and check if it’s open.

Centres currently affected:

Papatoetoe Centennial Pools, likely to be closed all day

Glenfield Pool

East Coast Bays Leisure Centre

West Wave

After a power outage:

Keep your fridge and freezer closed to keep food chilled.

Throw away any frozen food that has been exposed to temperatures 4° C for 2 hours or more or that has an unusual odour, colour or texture. When in doubt, throw it out.

If food in the freezer is colder than 4° C and has ice crystals on it, you can refreeze it.

Contact your doctor if you’re concerned about medications having spoiled.

Restock your emergency kit with fresh batteries, canned foods and other supplies.

If your power is expected to be out for a day, conserve your hot water.

ENDS

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