Park said a helicopter had been sent to assess the extent of the damage, particularly where road closures had made areas inaccessible.
Once that had happened, a priority plan would be made for affected areas.
Fortunately, few injuries were reported, but one person was taken to hospital after a tree feel on a car on Wairakei Drive.”
Ultimately, Park said the storm was the kind of scenario that Civil Defence planned for. The community had also stepped up to help, which they were grateful for.
“We’re a really resilient district, but Mother Nature is unpredictable.
“The public have been fantastic with all the photos, videos and reports that they’ve been sending to the council. We really appreciate the public support.”
She warned the area wasn’t quite out of the woods yet. Although the worst impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle had passed, storm damage and ongoing winds could lead to more problems for trees or properties.
“If people have issues on their private property, we suggest they get in touch with a local arborist or neighbour for help.”
If they spot issues on council land, the public was encouraged to report the problem and location via phone, online service request or the Antenno app.
Tūrangi-Tongariro councillor Sandra Greenslade said although there had not been high levels of rain in the area, the wind had been incredibly strong overnight.
“Around Tūrangi, we’ve got a lot of trees across the road. We’re not totally cut off, but I wouldn’t want to be trying to get in or out.
“Generally we’ve been really lucky, nobody’s been hurt. We’ve actually been very, very fortunate.”
