Vodafone network update re: Cyclone Gita

Vodafone network update re: Cyclone Gita

The following update on Cyclone Gita and the Vodafone network can be attributed to Vodafone Head of Technology Operations, Ian Hooker:

We hope everyone in Gita-affected areas continues to stay safe and our thoughts are with those who needed to be evacuated or suffered damage to their homes or communities.

Over the course of the storm, a total of 50 sites lost power at some stage in anticipated regions, all of which immediately switched over to battery with no disruption to coverage. As of this morning, 36 of these have had mains power restored, while 3 additional sites remain on battery operation.

We currently have 9* cell sites without service, as the power outages have outlasted the battery length. These are predominantly in the Taranaki/New Plymouth region. Deployment of generators to these areas is currently underway in areas where we’re confident our repair crews will be safe and road conditions allow. We will start to see sites recovering progressively throughout the day, with the exception of areas where road conditions remain unsafe. 2 sites have already been reached with generators and had service restored.

For any Vodafone customers who were evacuated from their homes, please DM /PM us on social media and we will put a free call diversion in place from your landline to your mobile. Also, for people who have their home broadband and an eligible mobile phone plan with us, get in touch and we will load your mobile with a free Always Connected data bundle so you can stay connected and let friends and family know you’re safe.

*Affected sites are West Egmont, Midhirst, Waitara, Auroa, Ohura, Oakura, Carrington Road, Ward St, and Opunake

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