8 September 2016

Strong winds and trees on lines cut power

Power was cut to around 3,000 customers overnight as up to hurricane force winds affected power lines across Orion's electricity network. Most power cuts were due to trees or branches falling onto power lines.

Customers throughout the Selwyn and Banks Peninsula areas have been the hardest hit by the storm. Around 1,700 customers in these areas remain without power this morning.

"Emergency crews worked throughout the night on critical faults but were, at times, hampered by the intensity of the wind and this still remains an issue, says Orion chief executive Rob Jamieson. "We will continue to work as quickly and safely as we can in difficult conditions. The power cuts are scattered across our network, so it takes some time to find and fix each fault, particularly in the rural areas."

"We urge customers who see a fallen power line or a tree on a power line to stay well clear and call us immediately on 0800 363 9898. Please do not attempt to clear the debris yourself."

Our next update will be at 1.00pm today.

ENDS

© Scoop Media