Major sections of South Island state highways are still closed following wild weather over the weekend. Photo / George Heard
Major sections of South Island state highways are still closed following wild weather over the weekend.
Flooding and slips that impacted roads completely isolated parts of the West Coast and the upper South Island.
Access to Nelson only re-opened yesterday afternoon once travel was possible on State Highway 6 between the city and Blenheim.
But Waka Kotahi says workers will be out first thing this morning to work on repairing the same highway between Murchison and Kawatiri.
They will also be working on the intersecting State Highway 65.
More of State Highway 6 - between Lower and Upper Buller Gorge, and State Highway 63 from Renwick to Tophouse Rd have also remained closed overnight.
• SH6 Inangahua to Westport (lower buller gorge).
• SH6 Murchison to Inangahua.
• SH65 from SH6 to Spring Junction.
• SH63 Renwick to Tophouse Rd.
"We know how important these routes are for South Island businesses and communities, and they will be re-opened as soon as we are able to safely do so," journey manager Tresca Forrester says.
Forrester is reminding all motorists in the region to take extra care and be aware that they are likely to encounter potholes, surface water and possibly debris on some re-opened roads, with many operating with lane restrictions or under temporary lower speed limits.
"With the massive rainfall we've just experienced, many areas will also remain highly susceptible to slips, or to further flooding if the rain returns. Please continue to keep safe and take extra care out on the roads."
In an update, the Buller Emergency Management team said assessments are currently being undertaken on impacted properties. A further update will be provided around lunchtime today.
Water
• Boil water notice in place for Westport, Carters Beach & surrounds.
• Water Conservation Notice in place for Punakaiki and Inangahua Junction as well as areas under boil water notices.
• Residents are also reminded to minimise the use of toilets, showers, washing machines and dishwashers, which add load to the town sewerage system.
Roads
• For roading updates visit Waka Kotahi/ NZTA for the latest information on the state highway network - https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/roadclosures/
• Please continue to stay where you are and limit your travel to essential only and if it is safe to do so.
• A number of Westport streets are still closed or limited to 4WD access only. Please only drive if absolutely necessary as driving through flooded areas can cause damage to neighbouring properties.
Welfare
• Get in touch with your neighbours, friends and family by phone or social media. Let them know that this is a short term situation. Reassure them if they're feeling anxious.
• We understand this is a stressful time, and we very much appreciate the patience and care people have been showing to each other.
• Stay put, stay safe, look after yourself and your neighbours.
• We will get through this if we look after each other.
Emergencies
• Where there is risk to life, people should call 111.
Who do I contact?
• If you have welfare needs (shelter, food, clothing, bedding), please ring the Buller Emergency Operation Centre 03 789 7999.
• For information please go to their Facebook page and website.
