Last updated 12:13pm - Severe weather has caused flooding around the district and the MetService are predicting more heavy rain over the next 24 hours.
We understand there are approximately 150 children on camp at Port Waikato School.
While all roads in and out of Port Waikato are currently blocked. We understand where the children are located is safe and they are at no immediate risk.
We will continue to monitor the situation and aim to have the children out by this evening if possible.
We are also currently using a helicopter to access all areas around the district.
The following roads are currently closed due to flooding and/or slips
- Old Mountain Road, Raglan (6km mark)
- Waingaro Road, Ngaruawahia
- Te Puroa Road, Ngaruawahia
- Slater Road, Huntly
- Rotowaro Road and Hangapipi Road, Huntly
- Highway 22 north of Glen Murray at the 21.5km mark
- Waitetuna Valley Road, Te Uku
- Tuakau Bridge and Port Waikato Road, Tuakau
- Klondyke Road, Tuakau
- Allen and Eyre Road, Tuakau
Other closures:
The Hakarimata track is now closed until further notice.
We have also received a number of reports of surface flooding and slips. These reports are currently being investigated.
If you see flooding or storm damage please phone us on 0800 492 452. If life is in danger, always call 111.
Civil Defence have established an operating centre at Ngaruawahia and are working with local authorities, emergency services and local media to assess risks, provide advice and respond to the flooding.
You should:
- Stay inside. Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
- Bring your pets inside. Move stock to shelter. If you have to evacuate, take your pets with you
- Put your household emergency plan into action and check your getaway kit in case you have to leave in a hurry.
- Secure, or move indoors, all items that could get blown about and cause harm in strong winds.
- Close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass.
- If the wind becomes destructive, stay away from doors and windows and shelter further inside the house.
- Power cuts are possible in severe weather. Unplug small appliances that could be affected by electrical power surges. If power is lost unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.
- Have enough water available for at least three days
- Stay out of flood water as there is a risk of wastewater contamination and unknown hazards.
- Call 0800492452 to report damage. If people or property are in danger always call 111.
Stay informed
- www.metservice.co.nz
- www.civildefence.govt.nz
- www.facebook.com/waikatodistrictcouncil
- www.twitter.com/waikatodistrict
Media contact:
Public Information Manager, Deanna Smith
Phone: 021464375
Email: communications@waidc.govt.nz
