Before the most recent rain over the past three days, almost all of Taruheru Cemetery had been reopened again for burials, to the relief of grieving families.
Burials were severely disrupted for periods in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle because of high groundwater levels.
Gisborne District Council liveable communities director Michele Frey said the run of dry weather resulted in the groundwater level dropping at Taruheru.
Burials returned to normal with only two rows in the corner of the cemetery unable to be used, she said.
“We were very relieved to be at that point, but we have been mindful of the impact of the latest rain.”
