Recovery kicks in as emergency phase ends

As the Far North officially transitions into the recovery phase of its Civil Defence response to the severe weather of last week, the Emergency Operation Centre will close tonight (Thursday 2 April).

The recovery phase began when the local State of Emergency was lifted just after 1pm today. This announcement, by Kahika Moko Tepania and Kohepu Chicky Rudkin, came as conditions improved across most of the Far North.

Support for those affected by the severe weather, which began with a Red Rain Warning on Wednesday 25 March, is ongoing during the recovery phase of the response.

A Civil Defence Recovery Manager, based at council headquarters in Kaikohe, retains emergency powers to enable this support which includes continuing damage assessments, managing unsafe buildings or land, fixing affected infrastructure and supporting communities’ welfare needs.

The recovery phase includes the Easter holidays which start tomorrow.

Anyone adversely impacted by the recent severe weather, who is yet to contact Civil Defence, should do so by calling 0800 920 029. You can also talk to our teams working in affected communities who are driving clearly identifiable Civil Defence vehicles.

Funding is available for residents severely affected by the recent weather event. For more information go here.