Porirua spirit strong

Mayor Mike Tana says the Porirua spirit is alive and well – with people pulling together in the face of days of earthquakes, floods and major slips across the city.

“It’s been tough for everyone and yet people have still taken time to help others. They’ve shovelled mud and debris for neighbours, provided hot drinks and food for people stuck in traffic jams and generally supported one another.

“Some people have had to leave their homes while others have had big clean-up jobs to do and the aftershocks keep coming. It can be an unsettling time so it’s reassuring to know we have a community that looks out for each other. Thanks everyone for your patience and kindness throughout it all.”

Council Chief Executive Wendy Walker said operations and infrastructure staff and contractors from Downers and Wellington Water continue to work long hours assessing, repairing or making safe areas where people or property are at risk.
“Geotechnical engineers are helping the Council by doing rapid risk assessment for areas that have been affected by landslips.The Emergency Operations Centre, Wellington Region Emergency Management Office and the Porirua Emergency Response Team are working closely with the Ministry of Education, Police, Fire, Ambulance and the New Zealand Transport Agency is working to get SH58 open both ways again,” she said.

“In the meantime, we’ll continue to respond to any further damage caused by bad weather and earthquakes. We are prioritising work and urgent jobs are being done first.”

Mayor Mike said it’s timely to remember to check our emergency supplies are stocked and have an emergency plan in place. See www.getprepared.org.nz for more information.

“It’s been a massive job involving many people and everyone involved has been fantastic while we work to get things back on track. Schools and businesses have also been awesome – opening their doors and providing information and assistance.”

Please ring the Council on 237 5089 or 0800 237150 if you see further problems around the city.

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