Category 2 tropical Cyclone Vaianu hit land on Sunday, April 12, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to the North Island.
Scroll down for recent updates.
Do you have pictures of the storm? Send them to us on news@1xx.co.nz
Cyclone Vaianu has now passed through the Bay of Plenty.
Wind, swells and rain battered the Eastern Bay on Sunday causing extensive road closures and power outages.
Today hundreds are still without power, and Horizon Network warned customers to be prepared for a further 72 hours (from Sunday) without.
Whakatāne District Council said the New Zealand Defence Force has been deployed to Whakatāne.
It said they will set up at Whakatāne District Council central offices and will establish a forward operating base.
The crew includes the New Zealand Defence Force team and HS60 vehicles, Swift Water Rescue Team, and Surf Lifesaving NZ team with IRB.
Friday, 17 April 7:45 UPDATE Power outage update from Horizon Networks.
The distribution of the known faults across the network. IMAGE // Horizon Networks
Horizon Networks said they continue to make progress restoring the electricity supply following the cyclone.
From the outset of the event, it stated that they had received support from Unisons and The Lines Company.
“We expect additional teams from Waipa Networks and WEL Networks to support the recovery over the next few days,” it said.
“We are grateful for their commitment and support in helping us restore electricity to our consumers following such a widespread event.”
As of this morning, the Horizon Networks outage map says 5 outages remain, with 30 customers still without electricity.
“Horizon Networks is actively contacting customers to understand whether electricity has been restored to affected consumers.”
Some customers may experience outages due to the isolation of the network to ensure work can be completed.
“We understand the disruption this is causing and thank customers for their patience while crews continue this recovery effort.”
Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
Horizon Networks said more faults may emerge in the coming days due to unstage ground caused by Cyclone Vaianu.
Horizon Networks urge customers who have logged outages with their retailers to verify weather electricity has been retsored.
“If you do not have electricity, we would like you to contact your retailer, who will log the call on your behalf and provide this to us. We will then be in touch with you.”
All wires should be treated as live, and any immediate hazards can be reported to 0800 467 496.
Thursday, 16 April 16:13 UPDATE Ōpōtiki Road closures.
Ōpōtiki District Council said State Highway 2 to 51 Ruatuna Road will be closed overnight as part of Horizon Networks' efforts to restore power.
It said powerlines will be lowered and repaired, throughout the night.
A detour is in place via Ōhiwa Loop Rd for houses in the affected area.
Thursday, 16 April 14:00 UPDATE Farmers and rural communities battle with the aftermath and call for change.
Following wide spread infrastructure and property damage, some are calling for changes in communication processes during major events.
Thursday, 16 April 12:00 UPDATE Horizon Networks update.
Communities across the region are being urged to prepare for ongoing disruptions as power crews work to restore electricity following extensive damage from Cyclone Vaianu.
Thursday, 16 April 9:28 UPDATE Whakatāne District Council offering free cyclone green waste drop-offs.
From Thursday, 16 April until Friday, 24 April, residents can drop off any cyclone-related green waste for free at the Whakatāne Resource Recovery Centre .
Whakatāne District Council Waste and Resource Recovery Manager Lisa Eve recognises the considerable work residents are undertaking on their own properties.
“This has been a significant event for our district, and we know many people are working hard to clear debris and recover from the damage left behind, which is why we want to support where we can and offer free greenwaste drop-offs,” she said.
The Council acknowledges that some residents may have already paid to dispose of green waste during this period and “sincerely apologises for this.”
“Considerable work has been underway behind the scenes to enable this free service, and [council] regrets that it couldn’t be implemented sooner.”
Eve said they’re preparing the Resource Recovery Centre for a busy weekend with additional traffic management in place to help support the expected increase in visitors.
“We’re expecting a high level of demand this weekend, and we are asking people to be patient, allow extra time, and follow any directions from staff on site so we can keep things moving safely and smoothly.”
She said the free green waste drop-off is for cyclone-related green waste only, and any general garden green waste will need to be paid for.
“This is not an opportunity to take a free pass to clear out general garden waste. This service is intended to support cyclone clean-up and help ease the cost on our communities after the weather event,” said Eve
Council are reminding those who plan to use the free service must ensure all material meets the standard green waste guidelines, and must not be contaminated with other materials.
Residents with other types of storm-related debris can use several alternative disposal options; scrap metal can be taken to Macauley’s on Commerce Street, treated timber, rubble and concrete can be taken to the Resource Recovery Centre, and for large fallen trees, it is best to contact a local arborist.
Council encourage those unable to access the Resource Recovery Centre to store green waste safely at home and dispose of it gradually using the kerbside green waste bin.
Thursday, 16 April 7:39 UPDATE Power outage update from Horizon Networks.
The distribution of the known faults across the network. IMAGE // Horizon Networks
Horizon Networks is continuing to restore electricity supply following Cyclone Vaianu, supported by crews from outside the region.
It said the scale and extent of vegetation-related damage is taking time to clear access before crews can undertake repairs.
“Since Monday, we have been prioritising the repairs on our main 11,000 volt distribution lines so that we can restore electricity to as many consumers as possible.”
As of 9:30pm Wednesday, 15 April, Horizon Networks said they were aware of around 400 customers still without power.
“Unfortunately, given the large geographic area that we serve and the distribution of faults across the network, restoration efforts are likely to continue into the weekend,” it said.
Copper wire theft has compromised the restorations of certain parts of the network, which is impacting timeframes.
Horizon Networks acknowledges this is a difficult and frustrating time for customers who have been without electricity.
“Our teams understand the impact outages have on homes and businesses, and they are working tirelessly to restore supply as quickly and safely as possible.”
They are reminding the community that “verbal abuse or threats directed at our staff are unacceptable.”
“Any such behaviour may result in crews being withdrawn from the site and the matter being referred to local police,” it said.
“Our field teams are members of the same communities they are working to support. Since Sunday, they have been operating in challenging conditions to restore electricity to affected customers. We ask the public to show them patience, respect and support as they continue this important work.”
Crews continued to respond to faults and emergencies throughout the night to ensure that there was no risk to public safety; however, they did not undertake any permanent repairs during the night.
Some customers may experience outages due to the isolation of the network to ensure work can be completed.
“We understand the disruption this is causing and thank customers for their patience while crews continue this recovery effort.”
Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
Horizon Networks said more faults may emerge in the coming days due to unstage ground caused by Cyclone Vaianu.
Horizon Networks urge customers who have logged outages with their retailers to verify weather electricity has been retsored.
“If you do not have electricity, we would like you to contact your retailer, who will log the call on your behalf and provide this to us. We will then be in touch with you.”
All wires should be treated as live, and any immediate hazards can be reported to 0800 467 496.
Wednesday, 15 April 14:41 UPDATE Power outage update from Horizon Networks.
Horizon Networks said their crews are continuing to repair the network through out today.
"Electricity has been restored to the majority of affected customers."
It said all available crews resumed work at first light, alongside additional vegetation and line crews to aid recovery efforts.
494 customers remain without power.
It said this will decrease as repairs are complete in the following areas:
- Manawahe, Pikowai.
- Military Road, Otakiri
- Matahi Valley Road, Matahi
- Ohuto Road, Ruatoki
- Waimana, Otara
- McCoy Road, Wainui
- Spencer Ave, Kawerau
Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
Horizon said some customers may experience power outages as crews carry out isolations to enable repair works.
New faults may also emerge due to unstable ground.
Customers who remain without electricity are encouraged to contact their electricity retailer to report outages at their property.
All downed or damaged power lines must be treated as live. Immediate hazards can be reported to 0800 HORIZON — 0800 467 496.
Wednesday, 15 April 7:57 UPDATE Power outage update from Horizon Networks.
IMAGE: Horizon Networks Outage Map Damage to powerlines IMAGE:Horizon Networks
Horizon Networks continues to make progress restoring electricity, with an additional eight teams lending a hand yesterday.
Currently, there is 10 outages, 7014 customers affected and 524 and still out.
Field crews are working on the repairs in the following areas:
- Manawahe, Pikowai, Otakiri
- White Pine Bush, Rūātoki
- Waimana, Otara
- Wainui
- Hogg Road, Rotomā
- Rewatu, Ohutu, Paekoa, Rūātoki
Horizon Networks said there have been multiple new faults reported by customers and from the ongoing aerial surveying.
“In particular, we have identified over ten new sites in the Matahi Valley area that has be severely damaged as result of trees making contact with our power lines,” it said.
“This will result in delays in restoration as access to these sites is severely compromised.”
Overnight crews continued to respond to any faults and emergencies, “to ensure that there is no risk to public safety.”
As repairs take place, there may be further outages due to isolations to enable completing repair works.
“We understand the disruption this is causing and thank customers for their patience while crews continue this recovery effort,” said Horizon Networks.
New faults may also emerge over the coming days due to unstable grounds caused by the weather event.
Those who remain without electricity are encouraged to contact their electricity retailer to report outages.
Horizon Networks urges medically dependent customers to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
All downed or damaged power lines must be treated as live. Immediate hazards can be reported to 0800 467 496.
Wednesday, 15 April 7:13 UPDATE Recovery
Both Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki Districts are no longer under a state local of emergency.
In Whakatāne six roads remain closed including:
- Herepuru Road- slips and trees down
- Arawa Road- stormwater works
- Rewatu Road- underslip repair
- Galatea Road- slips and trees down
- Manawahe Road- trees down (near Bay of Plenty Sun Camp)
- Stanley Road- tree blocking road on Waimana Gorge end & slip near #1081
Whakatāne District Council said roads are still wet in places and slips or falling debris are possible, so caution is urged.
The swimming platform at Whakatāne Boat Ramp has sustained damage in the storm and will be closed until further notice.
The Rūātoki, Matatā and Waimana water pump stations continue to operate on generator power.
Waimana residents are asked to conserve water and use it for essential needs only.
A boil water notice remains in place for Rūātoki.
In Ōpōtiki, some are still without power.
Ōpōtiki District Council urge all residents to report outages to Horizon Networks, and supply is gradually being restored.
"Please be aware crews are still working on faults, and outages may occur again."
Those who remain without power can utilise the welfare centre at Terere Marae for showers, kai and charging devices.
Portaloos are still available on Wharf Road for residents in Kutarere experiencing septic issues
"If your home is uninhabitable, please seek shelter at Terere Marae | 50a Terere Pā Road," said council.
Tuesday, 14 April 16:15 UPDATE Whakatāne District Council recovery update.
Whakatāne District Council said the Local State of Emergency has lifted.
Council said the most significant impacts were felt in coastal areas of Ōhope, Matatā, Thornton and surrounding low-lying communities.
"The combination of extreme winds gusting up to approximately 150km/h, very large seas and a high tide on Sunday afternoon created serious coastal inundation risk across exposed and low-lying areas," Local Controller Hone Patrick said.
Downed powerlines, fallen trees, hazardous debris and destroyed traffic signage impacted 60 roads across the district.
Roads across the district have been impacted, with only seven still closed:
Herepuru Road - CLOSED - slips and trees down
Arawa Road - CLOSED - stormwater works
Rewatu Road - CLOSED - underslip repair
Galatea Road - CLOSED - slips and trees down
Manawahe Road - CLOSED - trees down (near Bay of Plenty Sun Camp)
Braemar Road - CLOSED - trees + powerlines down (near #415)
Stanley Road - CLOSED - Tree blocking road on Waimana Gorge end & slip near #1081
Any fallen trees or slips, can be reported to Council on 07 306 0500.
It said non-urgent issues should be logged via the Fix It and Report a Problem form on the Council website.
Water supply issues continue across the district as well.
The Rūātoki water supply pump remains on generator power, with the boil notice still in place.
Both Matatā and Waimana water pump stations is also operating on generator.
Waimana residents are urged to continue conserving water while systems remain on backup power.
Geotechnical assessments of escarpments have been carried out in Ōhope and Whakatāne, with further assessment work ongoing.
Tuesday, 14 April 15:10 UPDATE Slip on Rotomā.
IMAGE:NZTA
NZTA said due to a slip this afternoon, caution is advised for motorists using this road.
Tuesday, 14 April 13:14 UPDATE Power outage update from Horizon Networks.
IMAGE // Horizon Networks Outage Map
Horizon Networks said it continues to make progress restoring the electricity supply, with crews working across the network to carry out repairs.
Crews resumed work at first light, and all available crews are active across the network.
Additional vegetation and line crews have been brought in to assist with recovery efforts.
“Electricity has been restored to the majority of affected customers,” said Horizon Networks.
1259 customers remain without power due to damage to network assets.
Affected areas include:
- Manawahe, Pikowai, Otakiri
- White Pine Bush, Ruatoki
- Waimana
- Rewatu, Rūātoki
- Rotoma
- Wainui
- Kawerau
It said some customers may experience power outages as we carry out isolations to ensure repair work can be completed.
“New faults may emerge over the coming days due to unstable grounds caused by the weather event.”
Those who remain without electricity are encouraged to contact their electricity provider to report outages.
Horizon Networks urges medically dependent customers to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
All downed or damaged power lines must be treated as live, and immediate hazards can be reported to 0800 467 496.
Tuesday, 14 April 12:48 UPDATE Shelter, Support, and Strength: Waiariki Whānau Bring Relief to Isolated Communities.
Community groups in the Eastern Bay of Plenty initially responded to immediate needs after Cyclone Vaianu and are now shifting focus from emergency response to longer-term recovery.
Local organisation Waiariki Whānau Mentoring – a kaupapa Māori organisation that provides mentoring, brokering and advocacy services for marginalised communities – understood support was needed in the wake of Cyclone Vaianu, not only for evacuees but also for whānau sleeping in undesirable conditions.
Read more about their mahi here.
Tuesday, 14 April 11:25 UPDATE Local recounts tree falling on her house.
Reports of trees uprooted, garages blown away and fences down have been flooding in from across the district.
1XX news spoke with Whakatāne local Kelly Taylor who had a tree fall onto the roof of her house, while she and family from Ōhope were inside.
Tuesday, 14 April 10:10 UPDATE Ōpōtiki remains in Local State of Emergency.
Ōpōtiki District Council said the district remains in a state of emergency as response and recovery efforts continue today.
It said response teams are out assessing damage to roads, properties and infrastrcture across the district.
Teams are "clearing debris and fallen trees, checking access routes and safety risks, and supporting essential services to get back up and running."
Residents still without power are encouraged to contact their power provider to report faults.
The Ōpōtiki resource recovery centre is open from 10am to 2pm today for rubbish and green waste only and kerbside collection is set to continue as usual.
Te Tāhuhu o te Rangi is open for those who need to charge their devices or use the wifi.
Council encourage people to continue looking out for one another as recovery continues.
Tuesday, 14 April 8:10 UPDATE State Highway Closures.
IMAGE // NZTA
All state highways in the Eastern Bay of Plenty have reopened following a number of closures due to Cyclone Vaianu.
Stop/go traffic management remains in place along some roads due to prior works.
Tuesday, 14 April 7:55 UPDATE Power outages.
IMAGE // Horizon Networks Outage Map
According to Horizon Networks, 11 outages remain this morning with 7031 customers affected and 1515 still out.
During Cyclone Vaianu, over 10,000 customers were impacted by power outages.
Horizon Networks said some areas remain without electricity due to damages to the network, but work will resume this morning to restore it as soon as possible.
Tuesday, 14 April 7:25 UPDATE Whakatāne District road closures.
- Herepuru Road CLOSED - slips and trees down
- Arawa Road CLOSED - stormwater works
- Rewatu Road CLOSED - underslip repair
- Galatea Road CLOSED - slips and trees down
- Manawahe Road CLOSED - trees down (near Bay of Plenty Sun Camp)
- Manawahe Road CLOSED - trees down (1.4km from Matahi Road)
- Braemar Road CLOSED - trees down (1.4km from Matahi Road)
- McLean Road OPEN - trees + powerlines down (near #351)
- East Bank Road OPEN - trees down
- Willow Lane CLOSED - trees down (Private section of road)
- Tahuna Road OPEN - trees + powerlines down
- Hillcrest Road OPEN WITH CAUTION - debris on road
- Fortune Road OPEN- trees down
- Moody Road OPEN - trees down (near #113)
- Banksia Lane OPEN - tree down
- Main Street, Edgecumbe ONE LANE - tree down
- Stewart Street OPEN - tree now cleared
- Douglas Street ONE LANE - tree down (near #27)
- Cross Road, Rūātoki - CLOSED - tree down (near #27)
- Awatapu Drive OPEN - tree now cleared
- Hinemoa Street - ONE LANE - tree down
- James Street - ONE LANE - tree down
- Apanui Avenue OPEN - tree now cleared
- College Road CAUTION - tree down (#59)
- Paroa Road CAUTION - tree down
- McDonald Road OPEN - tree now cleared
- Burma Road CAUTION - tree down
- Western Drain Road OPEN - trees + powerlines down
- Wano Road CLOSED - trees + powerlines down
- Reid Road CLOSED - tree down (near #516) & powerlines
- Foxglove OPEN
- Raroa Road CLOSED - tree down
- Grieve Road OPEN - tree down (near #629)
- Waimana Road OPEN - tree by school
- Waiewe Road OPEN - trees down
- Martin Place ONE LANE - tree down
- Lowe Road CLOSED - tree down (near #19)
- Matahi Road ONE LANE - tree down (near #551)
- Hogg Road OPEN - tree & Powerlines down (near #215)
- West End Road OPEN - trees & debris (near #64 #71 not council road privately owned)
- Commerce Street OPEN - streetlight on footpath (near #180)
- Mokoroa Grove OPEN - tree down
- Stevens Road OPEN - slip
- Kohi Point Road OPEN - trees & debris
- Wainui Road OPEN - tree down (near #1219 & Paparoa Road)
- Otarawairere Road OPEN - tree down
- Louvain/O'Rourke Place OPEN - streetlight down blocking one lane
- Stanley Road CLOSED - tree blocking road on Waimana Gorge end & slip near #1081
- Carling Road OPEN - tree down
- Thompson Crescent OPEN - tree down
- Farnsworth Crescent CAUTION - tree down
- George Street CAUTION - streetlight down
- Churchill Street CAUTION - garage on side of road
- Douglas Street ONE LANE - tree down (near #27)
- Alexander Avenue CAUTION - tree down
- Ferry Road CAUTION - Multiple trees blocking footpath
- Harrison Road CAUTION - Blocking one lane - Tree #36
- Matahi Valley Road OPEN - Slip 1/2 way to Lions Hutt
- West End Road OPEN - debris at the very end of West End Road
Monday, 13 April 21:10 UPDATE Horizon Networks update.
Horizon Networks said it has successfully restored power to most affected customers.
"Our teams are currently completing restorations and, on completion, will be finishing for the night so that we can resume work tomorrow to restore electricity to those who remain without electricity for a second day."
It said staff will continue to respond throughout the night to any faults and emergencies to ensure there is no risk to public safety.
The supply to the Opotiki and Te Kaha regions has now been restored, but some areas remain without electricity due to damage to the local network.
1625 customers are currently without electricity.
Areas outages may continue include:
- Manawahe, Pikowai, Otakiri
- White Pine Bush, Ruatoki
- Waimana
- Rewatu, Ruatoki
Due to damage to the network, some customers in the areas below could remain off:
- Rotoma
- Wainui
- Kawerau
It said further faults could emerge in the coming days due to the severity of the event.
Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
Horizon warned people to treat all downed or damaged power lines as treated as live, and immediate hazards should be reported to 0800
HORIZON — 0800 467 496.
Those who experience power outages are advised to contact their electricity retailer.
Monday, 13 April 16:40 UPDATE Power restoration.
Transpower said it has restored electricity supply to Eastern Bay of Plenty through its Waiotahe substation.
It said "We ask everyone to remain patient while Horizon Networks work to restore supply to as many affected homes and businesses as they can."
Some homes may still be without power as Cyclone Vaianu has damaged to Horizon Networks local distribution system.
Transpower said Horizon Networks crews are working hard to get this damage repaired.
Monday, 13 April 15:18 UPDATE Ōpōtiki District green waste update.
Ōpōtiki District Council said their office will close at 4:30pm this evening, so charged devices need to be picked up by then.
Ōpōtiki reasource recovery centre will be open tomorrow from 10am to 2pm for rubbish and green waste only.
Kerbside collection will continue as usual.
The Te Kaha and Waihau Bay resource recovery centres will remain closed.
Monday, 13 April 15:12 UPDATE NZTA update.
NZTA said crews are continuing to clear slips and debris across the region.
The current roading situation is:
SH30 Te Teko – Closed near Western Drain Road, with a tree blocking the highway. Scheduled to re-open this evening.
SH35 Ōpōtiki to Gisborne – now open.
SH30 Rotomā / Lake Ōkataina – now open.
SH2 Waioweka Gorge – Open. There are two sections where culverts are block with water flowing over the road, which are expected to be cleared later this afternoon. The public are urged to drive with caution.
SH33 Rotorua to Paengaroa – Open. Expect stop/go traffic management in locations for tree and debris clearing.
SH2/Matekerepu/Wainui Road roundabout to Ōpōtiki – Open.
SH2 White Pine Bush Road, Awakeri – Open, with crews clearing trees, drive with care.
Monday, 13 April 14:55 UPDATE Whakatāne Boat Ramp closed.
Whakatāne District Council said the Whakatāne Boat Ramp is closed due to debris.
Monday, 13 April 14:47 UPDATE State Highway 35 update.
Waioweka Gorge prior to clean ups IMAGE:NZTA
NZTA said crews are working to clear fallen trees and debris between Ōpōtiki and Hicks Bay.
The road is open between Ōpōtiki and the Punaruku slip site east of Hicks Bay, through to Gisborne.
State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge remains open and convoys have lifted.
It said "On all parts of the state highway network, please continue to drive with caution. Contractors will be a familiar sight for the coming days as they continue to clear other debris and any minor slips."
There will be traffic management in place across the region and temporary lower speeds.
Monday, 13 April 14:27 UPDATE Acting Mayor of Whakatāne District Julie Jukes speaks to 1XX on the impacts of Cylcone Vaianu on the district and their recovery.
Listen to Acting Mayor of Whakatāne District Julie Jukes on the impacts of Cyclone Vaianu.
Acting Whakatāne Mayor Julie Jukes told 1xx Cyclone Vaianu had major impacts on the local roading networks.
“The roads have downed power lines, fallen trees, hazardous debris and missing or damaged traffic signage including stop signs.”
Those travelling are urged to do so with extreme caution until roads are cleared and signs replaced.
Geotechnical experts are conducting assessments on escarpment, including at West End, Puhutakawa Avenue, Matatā, and Pukehina.
Coastal assessments into how the coast has fared are ongoing, with no significant damage reported yet.
She warns those living near an escarpment to remain vigilant for landslides.
“Keep an ear out for funny noises or cracking sounds.”
“Trees could be uprooted, but haven't come down yet, so just be vigilant,” she said.
The New Zealand Defence Force assisted Council staff with initial visual assessments of evacuated areas ahead of the residents' returning.
She said this, along with a visit from Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell, has made a difference to the morale and response in the community.
Jukes said Mayoral relief funding has not been announced.
Monday, 13 April 14:23 UPDATE Power update.
Horizon Networks said they are continuing to assess the damage to its network using aerial and foot surveys.
"Our initial assessment confirms that there has been significant damage caused to the network because of falling trees and unstable ground conditions."
6500 customers remain without electricity.
It said the most notable outage is the line that supplies Ōpōtiki and Te Kaha from Transpower Edgecumbe substation, impacting 5,000 customers.
Transpower is working to restore this as quickly as possible.
"Once this is restored, Horizon will then be in a position to assess if there has been further damages caused to its network in the Opotiki and Te Kaha regions."
"Customers are urged to call their retailers to notify them that your property remains without electricity."
The following areas are currently without electricity:
- Manawahe, Pikowai
- Awakeri
- Wainui
- Tāneatua
- White Pine Bush, Ruatoki
- Rewatu, Ruatoki
- Kawerau
- Ōpōtiki
- Te Kaha
Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
Horizon is continuing to assess and repair damage until Transpower has restored the substation.
It said once damage has been assessed, additional resources will be brought in from Horizon Networks' wider businesses as required.
Horizon warned people to treat all downed or damaged power lines as treated as live, and immediate hazards should be reported to 0800
HORIZON — 0800 467 496.
Those who experience power outages are advised to contact their electricity retailer.
Monday, 13 April 14:00 UPDATE TELECOMMUNICATIONS UPDATE.
In the wake of Cyclone Vaianu, many are without power and operating cell towers today.
New Zealand Telecommunications Forum CEO Paul Brislen said the most impacted areas are the East Cape.
“That entire road along that coastline is currently closed to traffic, so we can't get in there to fuel the generators that are there.”
He said he has been told State Highway 35 should be open the road later today and the Transpower are fixing the power faults “even as we speak.”
As soon as the road opens, generators and fuel will be taken into the region to allow the cell towers to operate offline.
"So it wouldn't be a complete replacement service, but it would be better than having nothing."
He said the priority in the scaled back service would go to emergency calls, voice calls and tect messages over things like data capability.
"We do limit the data capability so that the generators can run for longer, batteries will last a little bit longer, and we can generally make it last for as long as possible."
Brislen is hopeful this could be complete by the end of the night.
"They hope to get it done by six o'clock tonight, but it could be through the night and into the early hours of the morning, so hopefully later today, but possibly early tomorrow, that should all be restored and we'll have power back on and then all the towers will come back online."
Longer telecommunication outages could be possible, depending on how long power takes to be restored.
He reminds people who need to make emergency calls during cell tower issues to go ahead, even if their phone says there is no signal.
"Emergency calls will roam across to other networks where they're available. So even if your network operator isn't available for whatever reason, try making that emergency call anyway, because it will roam onto somebody else's network."
He said in future mobile phone companies are increasingly using starlink which means these outages out become less likely.
Monday, 13 April 13:33 UPDATE Ōpōtiki Mayor David Moore speaks to 1XX on the impacts of Cylcone Vaianu on Ōpōtiki district and their recovery.
Listen to Ōpōtiki Mayor David Moore speak on the impacts of Cyclone Vaianu.
Ōpōtiki Mayor David Moore told 1xx the district was largely impacted by power and communication outages.
He said the Transpower substation in Edgecumbe was damaged, meaning the Ōpōtiki District has been largely impacted.
Transpower and Horizon Networks are working to restore that as soon as possible, but outages could last 72 hours, he said.
Once restored, power may be turned on in staggered areas.
“On top of that, our district lost our ability to use our phones, which, in modern day, is a little bit of an issue.”
Those who have backup power or Starlink had issues accessing those communication lines.
“it was text only for a while, but, yeah, no phone calls. So that still seems to be sort of coming back online.”
In coastal areas, many were evacuated based on modelling for storm surges.
Moore said the evacuation notice came early to keep those people safe.
“There's definitely been some, you know, a few roofs gone in different places and certainly some houses that had coastal inundation.”
He said most of those houses were impacted by the high tide surges.
“So there were people displaced into different areas, and they're slowly moving home.”
Council staff are working with those who have been impacted.
Moore said that despite the damage, initial forecasts showed the damage could have been a lot worse.
Down the East Cape, Moore said there had been struggles to get in touch with the coastal communities.
However, Moore was confident that teamwork between local hapū, iwi and Coast Māori ward Councillor Pāpā Wharewera has meant those communities can start clean up straight away.
Inland, he said, the local Fire Brigade was vital in response to community issues throughout the night.
“I counted six call-outs during the event yesterday that I heard the siren, and I believe they worked most of the night. So just amazing work from them, and all the services and the volunteers that chipped in, iwi partners also helping out.”
Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell has made a visit to Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki Districts today.
When Mayor Moore spoke to 1xx, he was looking forward to the visit.
“His communication, his reassurance in getting us what we need, that takes a lot of pressure off the local councils that are going through these declarations.”
Once people are moved out of houses, and roads are open, Moore said ōpōtiki could look at asking for more funding to create resilience for future events.
“We can't just keep expecting our local iwi and marae to set up as a go-to place in these emergencies without giving them the tools to actually be prepared for this.”
“I wish it wouldn't, but there is going to be another time,” he said.
Monday, 13 April 1:30 UPDATE Whakatāne District Council update.
Whakatāne District Council said the evacuation centre at Whakatāne War Memerial Hall and Rangithi Marae have closed.
More information about what to do with branches from the weather for those claeaning up themselves will be given soon, it said.
Kerbside collections from Herepuru Road, Manawahe Road, Braemar Road, East Bank Road, Wano Road and Mclean Road are unable to picked up due to road closures at this stage.
It said bins not picked up today will be allowed an extra black bag next to their bin on the following collection day.
It said the roading network remains "in a bit of a state," today.
Roads of concern are as follows:
- Herepuru Road -CLOSED - slips and trees down
- Arawa Road - CLOSED - stormwater works
- Rewatu Road - CLOSED - underslip repair
- Galatea Road - CLOSED - slips and trees down
- Manawahe Road - CLOSED - trees down (near Bay of Plenty Sun Camp)
- Manawahe Road - CLOSED - trees down (1.4km from Matahi Road)
- Braemar Road - CLOSED - trees down (1.4km from Matahi Road)
- McLean Road - CLOSED - trees + powerlines down (near #351)
- East Bank Road - CLOSED - trees down
- Willow Lane - CLOSED - trees down
- Tahuna Road - CLOSED - trees + powerlines down
- Hillcrest Road - OPEN WITH CAUTION - debris on road
- Fortune Road - CLOSED - trees down
- Moody Road - CLOSED - trees down (near #113)
- Banksia Lane - CLOSED - tree down
- Main Street, Edgecumbe - ONE LANE - tree down
- Stewart Street - ONE LANE - tree down
- Douglas Street - ONE LANE - tree down (near #27)
- Cross Road, Rūātoki - CLOSED - tree down (near #27)
- Awatapu Drive - ONE LANE - tree down (near #62)
- Hinemoa Street - ONE LANE - tree down
- James Street - ONE LANE - tree down
- Apanui Avenue - CLOSED - tree down (near #25/30)
- College Road - tree down (#59)
- Paroa Road - tree down
- Burma Road - tree down
- Western Drain Road - CLOSED - trees + powerlines down
- Wano Road - CLOSED - trees + powerlines down
- Reid Road - CLOSED - Tree down (near #516) & powerlines
- Foxglove - CLOSED
- Raroa Road - CLOSED - Tree down
- Grieve Road - CLOSED - Tree down (near #629)
- Waimana Road - OPEN - Tree by school
- Waiewe Road - OPEN - Trees down
- Martin Place - ONE LANE - Tree down
- Lowe Road - CLOSED - Tree down (near #19)
- Matahi Road - ONE LANE - Tree down (near #551)
- Hogg Road - CLOSED - Tree & Powerlines down (near #215)
- West End Road - CLOSED - debris at very end of West End Road
- Commerce Street - OPEN - Streetlight on footpath (near #180)
- Mokoroa Grove - OPEN - Tree down
- Stevens Road - CLOSED - Slip
- Kohi Point Road - OPEN - Trees & debris
- Wainui Road - OPEN - Tree down (near #1219 & Paparoa Road)
- Otarawairere Road - OPEN - Tree down
- Louvain/O'Rourke Place - OPEN - Streetlight down blocking one lane
- Stanley Road - CLOSED - Tree blocking road on Waimana Gorge end & slip near #1081
- Carling Road - OPEN - Tree down
- Thompson Crescent - Tree down
- Farnsworth Crescent - Tree down
- George Street - Streetlight down
- Churchill Street - Garage on side of road
- Douglas Street - ONE LANE - Tree down (near #27)
- Alexander Avenue - Tree down
- Ferry Road - Multiple trees blocking footpath
- Harrison Road - Blocking one land - Tree #36
- Matahi Valley Road - CLOSED - Slip 1/2 way to Lions Hutt
Monday, 13 April 12:37 UPDATE MetService Cyclone Vaianu overview.
Cyclone Vaianu made landfall near Maketu yesterday around 2:30pm, bringing hours of strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous sea conditions to the North Island.
Meteorologist John Law said their biggest concern was the wind, seeing red strong wind warnings issued throughout the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel.
He said the wind was the strongest towards the Eastern Bay of Plenty, with the eye of the cyclone running down to the west of the Whakatāne town.
“The strongest winds are on that eastern side, coming in straight in from that north, northeast direction,” said Law.
“You can imagine that squeeze as well with the hills on the other side as well. Those hills that separate you from Tairāwhiti on the other side would have helped to channel in some of those stronger gusts.”
He said the “persistent nature” of those winds helped drive those larger swells towards the coast.
Whakatāne Airport recorded a gust of 94km/h.
Law said the weather station went offline shortly after, “possibly due to a power outage or that wind gust itself, so there would have been some stronger winds through there.
The strongest gust in Tauranga was 80km/h, and 85km/h in Rotorua.
In terms of rainfall, Law said the heaviest hit the Coromandel, with the heaviest in the Bay of Plenty was just west of Rotorua, experiencing 146mm of rainfall in the last two days.
Although the wind and heavy rain warnings are lifted, he said people will need to keep an eye on the forecast in the coming days as clean up begins.
“We are looking at some more fairly showery, active weather, perhaps even with the risk of quite a heavier burst coming through as we head through and towards tomorrow afternoon,” he said.
“The second half of the week, we're back into more of a southwesterly setup, which means generally drier conditions as we head through Wednesday and I think Thursday as well, especially through the Bay of Plenty, with most of the weather on the other side of the hills down towards the central plateau and across the western side.”
Monday, 13 April 11:39 UPDATE Power outages.
IMAGE // Horizon Networs Outage Map
According to Horizon Networks, 14 outages remain this morning with 8247 customers affected and 6643 still out.
During Cyclone Vaianu, over 10,000 customers were impacted by power outages.
Monday, 13 April 11:35 UPDATE Cell tower outages.
Cell tower faults are being investigated across the region today following the cyclone.
Spark cell tower outages - Spark.
Spark cell tower outages - OneNZ.
More to come...
Monday, 13 April 11:05 UPDATE NZTA road status update.
NZTA said State Highway 35 between Punaruku slip site and Gisborne is open again.
State Highway 35 between Ōpōtiki and Punaruku slip site remains closed.
The Waioweka Gorge is open under convoy traffic until midday, due to small rocks on the road which may cause vehicle damage.
"While the rain has cleared and the winds have calmed down, please continue to drive safely," it said.
Motorists are urged to be alert to the possibility of further debris or slips.
It said crews are working quickly to ensure additional stretches of State Highway can be reopened.
Monday, 13 April 10:22 UPDATE NZTA road status update.
NZTA said crews are out clearing roads of trees and debris.
It said White Pine Bush Road is open, but care is needed as crews are out clearing trees.
The Waioweka Gorge is now open under convoy conditions until midday, it said small rocks on the road could cause vehicle damage.
State Highway 30 Te Teko is now closed near Western Drain road with a tree blocking the highway.
This is expected to reopen by midday.
State Highways that remain closed are:
- SH30 from the SH33 to SH34 intersections - flooding/slips
- SH35 Ōpōtiki to Potaka
Monday, 13 April 10:11 UPDATE Ōpōtiki District Council open for reports and device charging.
Ōpōtiki Dostrict Council said their offices are open for walk in reports.
There will also be a device charging station where the device and charger can be dropped off for one hour.
Monday, 13 April 9:45 UPDATE NZTA expects most State Highways will be open by the end of the day.
NZTA said Cyclone Vaianu caused significant damage across the state highways in the North Island yesterday.
It said it expects most State Highways in the Bay of Plenty to be reopened by the end of the day.
In the Bay of Plenty NZTA closed a number of roads where trees had fallen due to the extreme wind, and where there was a high risk of further trees falling.
"Roadworkers inspected the closed roads this morning and they’ll be in action throughout the day clearing trees, debris, and slips to get roads back open for you."
Monday, 13 April 9:18 UPDATE Ōpōtiki roading update.
Ōpōtiki District Council said the roads in the area are in various conditions.
At this stage the roading status is as follows:
• SH2 Matekerepu/Wainui Road to Ōpōtiki – OPEN
• SH2 Waioweka Gorge – OPENING AT 10am
• SH35 Ōpōtiki to Hicks Bay – Emergency Vehicles & Residents ONLY
• SH35 Hicks Bay to Ōkitu – CLOSED
Monday, 13 April 8:55 UPDATE Significant power outage in Ōpōtiki District.
Ōpōtiki District Council said there is a significant power outage affecting the district.
“A major line at the Edgecumbe substation has been damaged, and Trustpower are reporting it may take up to 72 hours to sort.”
Council said all downed or damaged power lines must be treated as live, and immediate hazards can be reported to 0800 467 496.
“Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply,” it said.
“Customers are advised to contact their electricity retailer in the first instance for outage reporting and updates.”
Council advise those experiencing power outages to:
- Make sure everyone knows where the torches and batteries are. Your emergency supplies don’t have to be in a kit, but you might have to find them in the dark.
- Have a solar or battery powered radio so you can keep up with the latest news and alerts. Know which radio stations to tune in to for information during an emergency.
- Have a stock of food that doesn’t need to be cooked (canned is good) or something to cook your food on (gas barbecue or camp stove). Don’t forget food for babies and pets.
- Eat the food from your fridge first, then your freezer. Then eat the food in the cupboard or your emergency kit.
- Plan for your medical needs - Your power company can help you put an emergency response plan in place so you know what to do if the power goes out.
- Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
- Talk to your neighbours - Talk to your neighbours about what they’ll do if the power is out. You might find they have a gas barbecue and you have enough food and water to share (or the other way round).
Monday, 13 April 8:28 UPDATE State Highways closed across the district.
According to NZTA, the following state highways are closed:
- SH30 from the SH33 to SH34 intersections - flooding/slips
- SH2 Waioweka Gorge
- SH2 Ōpōtiki to Wainui Road- fallen trees
- SH35 Ōpōtiki to Potaka
Monday, 13 April 8:28 UPDATE Power outages remain throughout the region.
According to Horizon Networks, 16 outages remain this morning with 9473 customers affected and 7113 still out.
During Cyclone Vaianu, over 10,000 customers were impacted by power outages.
Horizon Networkssaid those affected currently could be without electricity for a further 72 hours.
"We will need to carefully plan and sequence our restoration efforts," it said.
"Subject to weather conditions in the morning, we will be undertaking aerial surveys to establish the extent of the damage concurrent with foot patrols so that we can readily assess and schedule our restoration efforts."
Monday, 13 April 8:24 UPDATE The Whakatāne River bar is now open.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council Senior Maritime Officer for the Eastern Region, Dan Barmaley, said the bar is now open.
He said the river peaked overnight and is now dropping.
“There is a lot of debris in and around the river, so expect more to come downriver over the next few days while the river level drops.”
The Flood and Harbourmaster Teams are continuing to monitor the situation with more rain forecast over the next week and will send out updates and advice as required.
If there are any issues, Bramley urges the community to call 0800 5KNOTS.
Monday, 13 April 8:21 UPDATE All rain and wind warnings have been removed for the Bay of Plenty as Cyclone Vaianu leave Aotearoa.
Whakatāne District Council said Cyclone Vainu has passed, although a number of hazards still remain across the district.
The Emergency Operations Centre staff, alongside the New Zealand Defence Force, have completed an initial visual assessment of the affected area.
All residents who were evacuated, mandatory or voluntary, were cleared to return at 6:00pm yesterday.
Local Duty Controller Hone Patrick said this is positive, but doesn’t mean everything is back to normal.
“We’re grateful to the many people who followed official advice and took important steps to keep themselves and each other safe,” he said.
“There are still areas of risk, and we’re asking people to continue taking a cautious, common-sense approach. There are fallen trees and debris on roads across the district, downed powerlines, and ongoing power outages with further slips still possible. Another high tide is expected around 3am, which could still affect some coastal or low-lying areas.”
The WHakatāne War Memorial Hall remains open as an Emergency Evacuation Centre for those who don’t feel safe to return home.
“We want to acknowledge and mihi to the local marae who stepped up at short notice to support whānau, along with emergency services, contractors and partner agencies who have worked through extremely challenging conditions,” said Patrick
Geotechnical assessments of the escarpments at West End, Pōhutukawa Ave, Commerce Street, Matatā and Pukehina are taking place this morning.
Council urge residents living near steep slopes, cliffs or escarpments to remain alert for any signs of movement, such as cracking ground or unusual sounds, and to avoid sleeping in rear rooms near steep banks where possible.
A conserve water notice remains in place across the district for Waimana, Tāneatua and Rūātoki.
Power cuts are affecting the pumps to the reservoirs.
Council said water should be used for essential needs only until further notice.
“This means don’t flush your toilets, limit shower use and let the dishes and washing pile up til further notice.”
Sunday, 12 April 19:22 UPDATE Extensive power outages will continue.
Horizon Networks said during Cyclone Vaianu, over 10,000 customers were impacted by power outages.
It said those affected currently need to prepare to be without electricity for a further 72 hours "as we will need to carefully plan and sequence our restoration efforts."
From tonight, the following communities remain without electricity:
• Te Kaha to Cape Runaway
• Waiotahe / Ōpōtiki
• Paroa Road / Poroporo
• Thornton / Edgecumbe / Ōtakiri
• Manawahe / Pikowai
• Tāneatua
• Wainui
• Ruatoki - White Pine Bush Road, Rewaru
• Kawerau - Spencer Ave
Medically dependent customers are urged to activate their emergency plans if they experience a loss of electricity supply.
The company said it will assess damage before restoration work.
It said work has been completed for the night and will resume at first light tomorrow.
"Subject to weather conditions in the morning, we will be undertaking aerial surveys to establish the extent of the damage concurrent with foot patrols so that we can readily assess and schedule our restoration efforts."
Damage to the network will be confirmed once initial surveys are complete.
It said the most notable outage is the loss of the line that supplies Ōpōtiki and the Te Kaha regions from Transpower, impacting 5,000 customers.
Transpower is assessing the damage and will provide Horizon with an update as soon as more information is available.
It said once damage has been assessed, additional resources will be brought in from Horizon Networks' wider businesses as required.
Horizon warned people to treat all downed or damaged power lines as treated as live, and immediate hazards should be reported to 0800
HORIZON — 0800 467 496.
Those who experience power outages are advised to contact their electricity retailer.
Sunday, 12 April 19:00 UPDATE Whakatāne District Council snapshot of roads closed.
Whakatāne District Council said trees, branches and debris cover roads across the district, including:
Arawa Road – Closed Stormwater upgrade
Rewatu Road – Closed under slip repair
Herepuru Road – Closed due to slips
Manawahe Road – Trees on powerlines – Closed
Braemar Road – Trees down – Closed
East Bank Road – Trees down – Closed
Willow Lane – Trees down – Closed
Tahuna Road – Trees in powerlines – Closed
McLean Road – Trees in powerlines – Closed
Fortunes Road – Trees down blocking road – Closed
Galatea Road – Trees down – Closed
Lord Cobham Drive – Tree down – Closed
Moody Road – Tree down – Closed
Banksia Lane – Trees down both lanes – Closed
Main Street – Edgegecumbe – Tree down – One lane
The Strand – Tree down – One lane
Stewart Street – Tree down – One lane
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