Some order returns to coastal communities

The flood affected communities of coastal Hawke’s Bay are showing signs of returning to normal, almost two weeks after heavy rain caused flooding and slips which cut off the townships.

Water supply: Testing of the water supply in Waimarama has shown that the water is fit for drinking and the boil water notice has now been removed. Chlorine, which was added to purify the water supply over the past week, was stopped yesterday but residents may notice some residual chlorine taste through to the end of the week. 

Roads: Ocean Beach Road is open to residents but a warning remains that the surface will become slippery when wet or from overnight dew. Extreme caution is required when driving the road.

Access to the final 500 metres of Te Apiti Road remains marginal. Residents with 4WD vehicles are able to access their homes but it’s not recommended anyone else uses that section of the road. 

Red stickers: Building inspectors are continuing a progressive inspection of homes which have been red stickered. Those with problems which have been rectified are being cleared for occupancy, but a number of homes will require longer term solutions in conjunction with their insurance company or the EQC.

Floodwater: There is some floodwater remaining on the sides of roads, which is slow to drain away. A meeting will be held on Thursday between Hastings District and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council to determine how this water can be best drained away. 

Rubbish   Roadside rubbish continues to be cleared by contractors The clearance of a large amount of debris from Gillies Ave is likely to be finished today (Tuesday) and a suction sweeper and power brooms will be used later this week on the streets of Waimarama. The driveways of private homes in Gillies Ave, which have suffered flood damage, are being repaired with crushed lime, which is being trucked in by Council contractors.

Counselling   Waimarama residents who continue to struggle in the aftermath of the flooding are reminded that counselling services are still available by phoning Hastings District Council on 8715000.

Sea Crest: The sea crest at Waimarama Domain, which was breached during the storm has now been replaced, offering residents protection in the event of high seas. A decision is still to be made on whether a culvert will be installed in the area of the breach.

Rural cleanup: The East Coast Rural Support Trust is co-ordinating the cleanup of farms. The Trust is likely to utilise Taskforce Green workers to speed up the clean up, including the reinstatement of fences and other damaged infrastructure.

 WINZ: WINZ staff will be in Waimarama today (Tuesday) from 10-2 to help residents who need advice on how to access Government assistance during the recovery from the flooding.