By Moana Ellis, Local Democracy Reporting
Ruapehu District Council has its Emergency Operations Centre on standby heading into Labour Weekend, with unsettled weather forecast on both sides of the holiday period.
Local Civil Defence teams are being supported by the Manawatū-Whanganui Civil Defence Emergency Management Group in Palmerston North, which has increased staffing at its Emergency Coordination Centre.
The council has also been liaising with iwi, partner agencies and contractors to ensure they are ready to respond if conditions deteriorate.
Civil Defence controller Clive Manley said a heavy rain watch was in place on Thursday for Tongariro National Park but the northern areas most impacted by last week’s floods – Ōngarue, Ōhura, Ōkahukura and Waimiha – were not expected to experience significant impacts.
Strong westerlies are expected to develop across the country on Sunday. A complex trough of low pressure is forecast to move from the Tasman Sea onto central New Zealand on Monday, bringing a chance of heavy rain and strong north-westerly gales across the North Island.
“Ruapehu Civil Defence will be watching conditions closely throughout the long weekend and is prepared to activate if required,” Manley said.
Residents urged to prepare
While the Ruapehu district was likely to avoid the worst of the incoming weather, Civil Defence is reminding residents to be prepared.
“We recommend every household is prepared to be self-sufficient for up to three days,” Manley said.
“Having a household plan and enough supplies if you’re stuck at home or cut off is the key to successfully getting through. You probably already have most of what you need – but in an emergency you may need to find it quickly, possibly in the dark.
“Don’t forget that you and your neighbours can help each other by sharing supplies too. By looking after yourself and your household, you’ll also be helping emergency services focus their limited resources on the people who need the most help.”
Resources for household emergency planning are available at getready.govt.nz and civildefence.govt.nz.
Travellers cautioned
With holiday traffic expected to increase, Civil Defence has advised motorists to take extra caution:Avoid unnecessary travelWatch for surface flooding, debris and rapidly changing conditionsCheck NZTA’s Journey Planner before long-distance travelReport local road issues to the council on 07 895 8188
Manley used travellers to be aware high winds can be dangerous for campervans, high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
He said campers and trampers should monitor weather and river levels closely, warning rivers and streams could rise quickly.
“We will be monitoring conditions throughout the long weekend, with staff on-call if needed,” Manley said.
“People can keep up to date with any key information on this weather event on the Ruapehu and Manawatū-Whanganui Civil Defence Facebook pages, and via news outlets.
“If life or property is at risk, call 111 immediately.”
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