Aerial survey targets isolated communities

Taranaki Civil Defence is sending four helicopters to assess welfare needs in remote rural areas isolated by slips and road closures after the weekend’s heavy rain and flooding.

The flights are expected to take place this afternoon.

Taranaki remains in a state of emergency today following the heavy rainfall and flooding over the weekend. Many local rural roads in Taranaki are impassable because of slips, and some areas are still without power.

Waitotara township was evacuated on Saturday night and alternative accommodation continues to be available for residents as South Taranaki District Council and Taranaki District Health Board staff assess the damage to houses in the township. The Fire Service is also hosing down roads and properties. An information centre for residents is being established in the Waitotara Hotel.

Across the region, people are advised to stay away from beaches, rivers and streams until Tuesday because of potential contamination as a result of heavy rain and flooding. Boaties are also advised to be aware of flood debris that has been washed out to sea.

Authorised by
Civil Defence Controller David Leask

ENDS

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