Emergency Access Re-established to Ōhura as Response Efforts Continue

Ruapehu District Council Civil Defence has advised that road access to Ōhura has been re-established for emergency services.

Civil Defence Controller Clive Manley said that while emergency access is now in place, the road to Ōhura via Matiere remains closed to residents and general travellers.

“There is still flooding across sections of the road around Matiere, and we are asking people not to attempt to drive through it,” Mr Manley said.

Although a small number of travellers have been able to leave Ōhura with assistance from local farmers, people are being urged to stay off surrounding roads until they are declared safe and fully reopened.

“We are also aware of travellers attempting to drive through Ōhura to reach New Plymouth. This is not possible due to significant slip damage further along the route,” he said.

Travellers heading to New Plymouth are advised to use State Highway 43 (Forgotten World Highway), which remains open.

With access now available for emergency services and contractors, welfare checks and infrastructure assessments are getting underway. The New Zealand Red Cross is expected to begin welfare checks upon arrival in Ōhura, alongside local iwi who are already supporting the community.

At this stage, only a small number of requests for food parcels have been received. However, there may be a need to arrange overnight accommodation for travellers who are unable to leave the area.

While residents connected to the Ōhura reticulated drinking water supply are advised that their tap water will be safe to drink taps should be checked to ensure water runs clear. Council staff are travelling to the township to inspect the water treatment plant, with the aim of restarting it once electrical systems have been assessed.

Bottled water will also be supplied for residents on tank water where supplies may have been compromised.

Local farmers have played an important role in supporting the response by helping to clear slips from local roads where possible. They are currently checking on farm damage and stock losses.

Council is coordinating with the New Zealand Defence Force to undertake a helicopter flyover around midday, which may also be used to deliver essential supplies if required.

The Minister for Emergency Management, Mark Mitchell, is also enroute to Taumarunui to assess the situation first-hand and has confirmed that all necessary Government support will be made available.

Favourable weather conditions this morning have significantly supported response efforts. While some further rain is forecast, it is not expected to cause additional issues at this stage.

Residents and travellers are urged to continue following official advice and updates.

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