Whakatāne District Council’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has now stood down following around 24 hours of persistent, heavy rain across the district.

Council teams monitored conditions and responded to weather-related impacts overnight and into this morning, particularly in areas that experienced concentrated rainfall, including Matatā, Manawahe, and Awakaponga. Clean-up efforts and work to restore access are now underway in these areas following multiple slips.

Local Controller Mike Avery says that although the rain has eased, risks remain.

“While the sun is now shining, the ground is saturated. This means slips are still possible, especially near steep slopes, escarpments and cliffs, and temporary road closures may occur. We’re asking road users to take care, slow down, and follow any signage or directions from crews on the ground.”

Mr Avery advises that anyone living or working at the base of an escarpment should avoid using ground-floor rooms at the rear of their property for at least 24 hours after heavy rain has stopped.

“If you feel unsafe or notice signs of ground movement or instability, please self-evacuate to a safer location and let us know immediately so we can investigate.”

The Council also acknowledges that neighbouring districts, including Western Bay and Tairāwhiti, have experienced significant impacts.

“Over the coming days, we’ll be working closely with Emergency Management Bay of Plenty to identify how we can best support recovery efforts.”

Council extends sincere thanks to local residents for heeding safety messages, staying off roads where possible, and providing valuable local information.

“Your cooperation has helped keep people safe and enabled our staff and contractors to focus on the most urgent response work.”

Residents are reminded to report urgent issues by calling 07 306 0500, and to log non-urgent requests at whakatane.govt.nz/fixit. For the latest updates, please follow Council’s official channels, including Facebook and the Council website.

© Scoop Media