Response efforts remain ongoing in Ohura following the devastating flooding in the early hours of Sunday morning that inundated the township with people in need being urged to come forward.

Despite being in the middle of a significant clean-up effort, with homes and infrastructure severely impacted, the Ohura community turned out in force for a public meeting yesterday to discuss the response and next steps.

A key priority for Civil Defence and partner agencies is encouraging those who have not come forward already and who need assistance to share what support they require.

Around 50 homes have suffered flood and silt damage with six being significantly damaged.

Council has commenced work on pumping out septic tanks that were flooded to enable people to stay in their homes and extended the opening hours of the local Transfer Station to support the disposal of flood damaged goods.

Heartland Services has been based at the Ohura Community Hall today, meeting with residents and helping connect them to the most appropriate government and community support agencies.

Local iwi, Ngāti Hauā, continue to play a key role in the response, providing food deliveries, cleaning supplies, and dry firewood to affected whānau.

The Ministry of Social Development has advised that there have been enquiries relating to assistance with power bills and replacing flood-damaged whiteware.

The Rural Support Trust reports it has connected with most farmers across the district, who are now focused on repairing flood damage, including slips and fencing.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) crews are continuing to assist with washing out properties and clearing debris.

Road access into Ohura remains restricted to emergency services and local residents.

Many roads are still reduced to one lane and remain slippery, with mud yet to be cleared in places.

Drivers across the district are urged to take extreme care, particularly with contractors working on roads and the ongoing risk of further slips or falling trees due to saturated ground conditions.

Further updates will be provided as response and recovery efforts continue.

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