Media statement - for immediate release

6.30am, Mon 16 Sept 2013 - next update at 4.30pm today

Continued progress in restoring power

Over 1,000 customers had their power restored on Sunday bringing the number of Orion customers without power, following the gale force winds on Tuesday night, down to below 2,000 this morning. 28,000 customers originally lost electricity supply due to the winds.

Most of those that remain without power are in the rural community west of Christchurch.

"We hope to restore electricity to the majority of remaining customers without power today, with the residual customers having their power restored tomorrow. During this stage of the repair effort it is slow progress reducing the number of customers without power as many of the repairs only affect a few customers but still take many hours to complete," says Orion Chief Executive Rob Jamieson.

"Contractors from throughout the South Island and Wellington have been assisting us and we are thankful for their support. The patience and support of those without power is also much appreciated during what must have been a tough week," continues Mr Jamieson.

We ask any residents using generators to get them installed by registered electricians to ensure the safety of the linesmen repairing the network.

If you see a fallen power line, or a tree on a power line, please stay well clear and call us on 0800 363 9898.

ENDS

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