6 December 2012

Mayor: Hobsonville tornado a tragedy for Auckland

The Mayor says Aucklanders’ thoughts are with those affected by this afternoon’s tornado and severe rain in the Hobsonville area.

Len Brown has spent the afternoon in the area with emergency services, inspecting the damage and meeting some of those affected.

“My deepest condolences and commiserations to the families of those who have died. This is a real tragedy and my heart goes out to the community and to the company for which the deceased were working. A number of people are in hospital and they have my best wishes for a speedy recovery.

“Up to 150 homes have suffered some kind of damage, and many of the people living in those homes have been relocated to Whenuapai Air Force Base,” says Len Brown.

“I want to express my deep appreciation for the job being done by the Air Force and the real pace with which they have dealt with the emergency. Thanks also to all the emergency services for their rapid and hard work today, including the council’s welfare staff and building inspectors.”

“The worst of the weather now appears to be over, but I appeal to people to take care as they drive home tonight. There is still flooding and debris on roads.”

“Lives have been lost, people injured and property badly damaged. Those affected and their families are in our hearts and minds.”

Electricity is was knocked out in many parts of Auckland including Henderson, Greenhithe, Hobsonville, Riverhead, Meadowbank and St Johns. There was widespread surface flooding on roads and motorways throughout Auckland and motorists are urged to take care or stay off the roads if possible.

Auckland Council building inspectors are attending the worst affected areas. Civil Defence is liaising with Whenuapai Airbase and providing support as required.

For transport updates: www.AT.co.nz

Information is updated at http://www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz/Emergency-Status/

ENDS

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