Finding power to make do in crisis

As flashbacks go, the one we endured in our house yesterday morning wasn't the most welcome.

In saying that, losing power overnight certainly wasn't the most terrible thing that could have happened. At least the candles, torch and matches were nearby in case they were needed, a hangover from last weekend's storm; it seemed likely that with more strong winds there could be power cuts.

Being restricted to cereal and heating water on the barbecue wasn't any great hardship. Not compared to what some people have had to endure during the past week. We have been fortunate to have power all week; it's more than many have had. Our livelihood wasn't put in jeopardy by the lack of electricity, and our food was kept chilled and frozen as it needed to be.

One thing last weekend and yesterday morning's episode brought home to me was our utter reliance on electricity. Seemingly we need it to light and heat our homes, run pumps that keep the water flowing, provide hot water, cook ... pretty much all the important functions. Of course it doesn't have to be the case and I have always remembered the problems it created at my parents' home when the power went off - everything except the gravity-fed water supply was reliant on electricity. It has always astounded me that, as independent and self-reliant as New Zealanders are, we would allow ourselves to be so vulnerable.

It's not exactly our fault though. Far from the current energy efficiency advice that we are bombarded with, there was a time when Think Big was in vogue and everyone was encouraged to use electricity for the good of the company. It's a policy which looks set to pay dividends for the Government now as it looks to sell off a chunk of state assets, notably the highly-profitable energy companies.

But that's digressing. As much as being without power is frustrating and inconvenient, the past week has shown the resilience of the local community. Right from the moment the storm hit, people were out helping clear debris and there were countless stories of people offering equipment or their homes to those without or who might like the luxury of a hot shower.

It's remarkable to think of a shower as a luxury, let alone electric lighting, television, computers and internet among other things. It shows how far we've come that what were once luxuries are now deemed by many to be must-haves and having to go without occasionally can provide a good lesson in making do, something our forebears were masters of.

Still, to all the workers and volunteers out there doing such a fine job, keep up the good work, your continuing efforts are greatly appreciated.

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