Power cut to 1500 homes in Western Bay

Power is out to hundreds of homes in Tauranga this morning. Photo/file

Powerco is working to restore power supply to 1532 customers in the Western Bay after strong winds and a car crash today.

About 679 homes in Te Puna are without power after a car struck a power pole. A further 526 homes in Athenree and 327 in Wairoa have also lost power. Site investigations were underway at those sites.

Powerco network operations manager Phil Marsh said strong winds had caused damage to the network, bringing lines down.

People must keep clear of all downed lines by at least 4m and call emergency services on 111 or Powerco on 0800 27 27 27 immediately, he said.

Homeowners should take steps to store or tie down backyard gear, Marsh said.

"Trampolines and outdoor furniture become missiles and get tangled in power lines during gale force winds."

Customers wanting information about power cuts could go to www.powerco.co.nz or call their electricity retailer.

Strong winds have pummelled the Bay of Plenty overnight, and the region is currently under a severe weather warning.

Looks like the wind will pick up in the Bay of Plenty too!

Posted by Powerco on Sunday, 10 June 2018

Heavy rain and severe gales have caused flooding and slips and road closures across the North Island.

A deepening sub-tropical low is moving over the Bay of Plenty this morning and brought with it 130mm of rain overnight to the Gisborne Ranges.

State Highway 2 between Gisborne and Opotiki is also closed at Te Karaka due to flooding - which is blocking through traffic.

Road users are asked to delay travel if possible, as there are no official detours available at this sta.ge