Source: Radio New Zealand
SUPPLIED
The state of emergency in Tai Rāwhiti has been extended following extreme weather two weeks ago.
The declaration on 21 January came as heavy rain and severe flooding swept across the North Island, battering communities on the East Coast.
Tairāwhiti Civil Defence said the state of emergency had been extended for another seven days until 11 February to keep support in place.
The declaration provides Civil Defence emergency powers including closing roads, undertaking earthworks, and entering properties.
Significant slips have cut off access to many communities, with a massive landslide on State Highway 35 separating Hicks Bay and Te Araroa.
In a recent update, the Transport Agency said State Highway 35 between the townships was now open to emergency services only.
“Roadworkers have made access across the slip at Punaruku, at the Hicks Bay end of SH35, but the road remains closed.
“There’s a lot more work to do in the area before we can open this section of the road to anyone other than emergency and lifeline services.”
The highway into Te Araroa from the south – which had been accessible by convoy only – was now open.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
