Be fire safe
Masterton District Council [MDC] is reminding residents to get their homes fire-safe for summer. Once the wet weather subsides, it’s expected an El Niño weather pattern will make its way to Wairarapa, bringing persistent wind and dry spells. Fenz wildfire specialist Graeme Still advises to “clear your gutters, get a non-flammable doormat, and remove flammable materials like firewood stacked against your home.” MDC also recommends residents keep their lawns short and watered – there are no water restrictions in Masterton currently.
Power outages
Over 1000 households in and around Featherston experienced power outages yesterday due to high winds gusting around the region. In some cases, residents reported the power going out with a “bang”. Powerco confirmed the outage that began at 11.12am was caused by a power line coming loose in the wind and affected 1221 properties. Electricity was progressively restored to households, with the last houses successfully reconnected at 2.39pm. There was also a significant outage in Alfredton, Eketahuna that affected 295 households. Powerco said power was restored to all households by 2.43pm.
Pool prep
South Wairarapa District Council reports the outdoor pools in Featherston, Greytown and Martinborough are currently being prepped for the summer season, which begins next weekend. The pools are beginning to be filled and will be ready on December 2.
Weather outlook
MetService is forecasting cloud, showers, and fresh southerlies today. The recent drop in temperature is likely to continue tomorrow, with occasional rain clearing inland in the afternoon, although it’s likely to remain cloudy. Fresh southerlies will ease in the evening.
Kuranui gym
Ministry of Education [MoE] leader of infrastructure and digital Scott Evans has informed the Times-Age that a building consent application for the new gymnasium at Kuranui College was submitted to South Wairarapa District Council last month. MoE is currently working with a contractor to agree on pricing and programming of the development, and once a contract is signed the gym is expected to take from 12 to 18 months to deliver, Evans said.
