Hawke's Bay coastal community recovery operation continues

The Hastings District Council recovery operation for flood hit coastal communities has continued today.

A number of roads have been reopened and some residents have been allowed to return to their homes.

The latest roading update:

Waimarama Road: Restricted access to residents and emergency services only. The road is single lane in many parts and slippery. Extreme caution is necessary.

Maraetotara Road: Has been reopened for residents and emergency vehicles. The road is slippery and single lane in parts and extreme caution is required.

Te Apiti Road: Closed due to slips. Contractors have started clearing the debris. Expect to open midday Saturday 30th April for limited access for residents and emergency vehicles.

Waitangi Road: Council section of 500 metres is open. Private access from there on is closed indefinitely.

Ocean Beach Road: Closed. Contractors have been clearing slips. The road is expected to be open Saturday 30th during the afternoon. Then, restricted access will be available for residents and emergency vehicles.

All other council roads are open but many are single lane with slips and subsidence. The public is advised to drive to the road conditions.

In particular, drivers need to take extreme care on Tangoio, Waipatiki and Aropaoanui Roads.

Hastings District Council is currently working closely with the affected communities to ensure an effective response effort that takes into account local priorities.

Residents in all areas are reminded that floodwater can be polluted, so all items in contact with water should be treated with caution. Personal hygiene, especially hand washing, is very important to prevent the spread of disease.