The local State of Emergency for Hutt City Council has been terminated.

Wellington Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Joint Committee Chair Anita Baker declared the termination at 2.30pm on Wednesday, 22 April.

The State of Emergency remains for Wellington City and the Wairarapa.

This decision reflects that the immediate risks to life and property from the recent severe weather have reduced, and that emergency coordination and powers are no longer required by Hutt City Council.

“I understand the situation in Lower Hutt has stabilised, and essential services and council functions are operating as normal,” Anita Baker says.

“Ending the State of Emergency allows us to step back from emergency settings while continuing to manage any remaining impacts through our normal processes.”

What this means

With the State of Emergency lifted, council services and partners will continue responding to weather impacts through standard operational arrangements. This includes infrastructure repairs, monitoring known risk areas and supporting affected residents where required.

Returning to business as usual does not mean the effects of the weather have disappeared.

Ongoing risks and advice

While conditions have improved, saturated ground across the region means some risks remain. Slips, surface flooding and debris can still occur, particularly if further rain falls.

People are urged to:

• take care when moving around the city and during any cleanup
• avoid unstable slopes, slip areas and damaged roads or tracks
• be cautious around pooled water, mud and silt, which may be contaminated
• continue following official advice from council and MetService

“We’re asking people to stay alert,” said Baker. “Some impacts may not be immediately visible, and conditions can change quickly.”

Hutt City Council will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates if required. People who need assistance are encouraged to contact council through usual channels.

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