Drivers of Abandoned Cars Asked to be Patient

Police have asked drivers of abandoned cars to be patient after a number of drivers have attempted to get to their cars using their own four-wheel-drives.

Police say the only way drivers can safety get to their vehicle is by catching a Civil Defence bus from Hukarere Girls College in Eskdale.

Civil Defence Controller Mike Maguire says the last bus from Hukarere to cars abandoned along State Highway Five has departed.

Owners of vehicles abandoned, on the Napier side of Te Haroto, that haven’t already picked up their cars should make their way to Hukarere Girls College tomorrow morning.

Drivers should listen to the radio for further instructions on what time to report to Hukarere Girls College.

Weather conditions will dictate when the road will be reopened and when the balance of vehicles will be recovered.

At 2pm, there were about 25 vehicles that could not to be recovered because they are embedded in deep snow.

Farmers and other residents in snowed in areas who require medical assistance or other emergency assistance should contact Hastings District Council on ph. 871 5000 or call 111.

Senior Sergeant Andy Sloan of Napier police says some locals have been trying to get onto SH5 from side roads, but they are being turned back.

"It's important that everyone in the area stay off the roads and not venture out unless it is absolutely necessary," Senior Sergeant Sloan says.

"The last thing we need is for more vehicles and people to get stuck or stranded in what continues to be cold and wet conditions."

Comprehensive list of people who have been evacuated are being compiled by both Hastings and Taupo emergency centres.

People wanting to check on the welfare of family travelling the highway can call either Hastings District Council ph. 871 5000 or Taupo on ph. 0800 275 832.