Mr MacDonald said officials began heading out to assess the situation at first light today with issues including significant flooding at Moerewa , Kawakawa and Kaeo and multiple flooding-related road closures, including on parts of the State Highway network.
Northpower also reported new feeder faults affecting areas near Dargaville and Hukerenui.
It estimates 570 customers are without power - 299 on the high voltage network and the others on low voltage lines. Top Energy, which supplies the Far North District, is also grappling with power cuts, with some customers without power now for several days.
Mr MacDonald said among key tasks today will be to assess welfare needs particularly for those in isolated spots or who have been without power for several days as well as checking electricity, roading and other infrastructural damage.
Those requiring assistance in the Far North should contact the Far North District Council on 0800 920 029 or in the Whangarei district, the Whangarei District Council on 0800 932 463.
Ministry of Social Development offices would also be open in Kaitaia, Kerikeri and Kaikohe from 8.30am today.