NZ Police CommCens Alert 16:35 29-03-2007 Northland

Location of incident: Northland

Incident Type: Weather Update

Emergency services are responding to a large number of calls for assistance throughout Northland.

Widespread flooding is hampering rescue efforts in many areas.

Due to cliff-top slips endangering several properties, people living in Opua, particularly Beechy Road, Franklin Road and Richardson Road are urgently requested to evacuate their homes and go to the Opua Cruising Club.

Several other houses are reported to have been inundated or swept away by flood waters, specifically the motel at Haruru Falls and another house at Waioimo.

There are no confirmed reports of loss of life at this point although several people have been reported swept away and have been rescued.

Residents of Waipapa are advised that an emergency shelter has been set up at the Waipapa Community Hall; Kerikeri residents at the Kerikeri Ambulance Centre; Kawakawa residents at the Kawakawa Ambulance Centre; Opua at the Opua Cruising Club.

Civil Defence are setting up Emergency Centres at Kaikohe and Whangarei. Their Communications staff will be making detailed releases in due course.

The heavy rain in Northland is reported to be easing however as the front moves down the North Island, further flooding is expected.

Motorists particularly are advised to take care and delay all travel in the far north.

ENDS

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