​Community Update - Flooding Event - Wednesday 8th July 2026 8am

Our focus remains on assessing the damage and building a clear understanding of the overall risk picture across the affected area.

While floodwaters have receded, there remains a risk of further rainfall and changing conditions. Teams are continuing assessments to ensure any decisions made are based on the latest information and prioritise community safety.

We know people are keen for information about when it will be safe to return to homes and the potential reopening of the West End. Assessments are ongoing this morning, and we expect to provide a further update on both matters around midday today.

At this stage, road closures remain in place both north and south. We ask people to continue avoiding closed areas and follow the direction of emergency services and response teams.

The Memorial Hall evacuation area is currently closed due to not being needed. For anyone needing to evacuate, the marae remains the designated place of refuge and support.

If you do need to drive within the district to family, friends or get supplies, please take extra care on the roads. Conditions can change quickly, and hazards may still be present. If your journey is not essential, we encourage you to stay off the roads to help keep yourself and others safe, and to allow response crews to carry out their work.

We appreciate the community's patience and cooperation while assessments are completed. The safety of residents, visitors and responders remains our priority.

Our thoughts are with the families affected by this event and all those who have been impacted. We recognise this is a challenging time for many in our community and thank everyone, the emergency services and marae for their resilience, support, and understanding.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.