Tararua is bracing for another bout of heavy rainfall, with the district council advising residents to limit travel and be ready to evacuate.
In light of the extended heavy rain watch for the region, Tararua District Council [TDC] said coastal and isolated communities needed to be prepared and ensure each household had enough food, water, and comfort supplies to last three days. It said many roads were still compromised and “extremely vulnerable”, especially in coastal areas.
Although the number of closed roads had dropped to 27, TDC warned this could fluctuate over the coming days.
“These roads are going to need an ongoing response effort. All travel along coastal routes risks the safety of the driver and their passengers.”
In an update on the Cyclone Gabrielle recovery efforts, TDC said it was focussing yesterday on reaching communities vulnerable to being cut off.
“Welfare outreach convoys will continue to visit rural properties that are accessible by four-wheel drive only.”
Akitio was set to receive three days of non-perishable food in its community hall, and supplies were to be delivered to both Pongaroa and Herbertville.
TDC said help would also be provided to the Herbertville Campground cleanup.
The campground was rapidly inundated when Cyclone Gabrielle hit the region Tuesday last week.
Precautionary boil water notices remained in place for Akitio and Pongaroa yesterday, with a 15,000 litre water tank available at Pongaroa Community Hall.
