Ruapehu Civil Defence Controller Clive Manley says the district’s local roads and water systems are recovering well following yesterday’s extreme weather.

“The Emergency Operations Centre, which was activated as a precaution ahead of the storm, was stood down at 9.30pm last night,” said Mr Manley.

“While there were a number of slips and fallen trees that closed local roads - including Raetihi-Pipiriki Road at Mangaeturoa North Road, Tokirima Road at the Ohura River bridge by Maraekowhai Station, and Roto and Saddlers Roads - our contractors have been working since first light to clear the debris.

Most affected roads are expected to reopen by mid-morning, although Raetihi-Pipiriki Road has sustained a major slip and will take longer to clear.”

Ohura Road was reduced to one lane about 5km from Ohura township, and there has been some shallow flooding near Waitangata Road close to Matiere.

High turbidity levels caused by heavy rainfall, along with increased water demand during the school holidays, put pressure on drinking water supplies.

“Taumarunui, Ohura, and Owhango water treatment plants were taken offline during periods of peak turbidity,” said Mr Manley.

“However, water treatment operations are now returning to normal. The Waimarino (National Park), Ohakune, and Raetihi plants continued operating throughout the event without any issues.”

Mr Manley added that the district’s wastewater systems were put under pressure due to the large volumes of water entering the system, but these are expected to stabilise as water flows subside.

As of 10.30am this morning, Waka Kotahi NZTA reported that State Highways 43, 3 and 4 remain blocked at various points due to slips and were advising people to avoid unnecessary travel.

“If you do need to travel out of the district, please use the NZTA Journey Planner at journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions to check the latest highway conditions.”

With the ground still saturated and local roads likely to be fragile, drivers should take extra care, reduce speed, and watch out for surface flooding.”

Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton said that he wanted to thank those involved in the emergency response.

“I want to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of council contractors and emergency services who worked overnight and are now busy supporting the recovery.

I would also like to thank the Pipiriki Campground for stepping up and looking after a family who became stranded due to the road closure. It’s a great example of the community showing manaakitanga and caring for others,” he said.

Anyone encountering flooding, slips, or other road hazards is urged to call Council on 07 895 8188 or report the issue through the Antenno app.

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