The forestry industry is supporting efforts to restore key transport routes which have been destroyed following severe flooding in Gisborne.
The region remains in a state of civil defence emergency after it was hit with record rainfall last week with some figures exceeding the one in 100 year levels.
Logging trucks were limited to movement between only Dunstan Road and Eastland Port and others were being asked for patience, as contractors worked hard to inspect and repair a very sodden and rain-affected network.
The flooding destroyed the Maungahauini Bridge at Tokomaru Bay which is a vital coast link and Waka Kotahi expects to have a temporary fix in place by April 13 until a permanent solution is completed.
Council has been working closely with Eastland Wood Council, forestry contractors and the port on a prioritised plan to progressively open access to more roads and forests.
The forestry industry has offered its support to contractors working on the damaged roads with heavy machinery, trucks, radio communications and people.
However, Waka Kotahi says work to repair sections of SH35 were held up by people stealing diesel intended for the machines needed to repair the road.
“Our contractors are working incredibly hard, putting in some long hours, to restore access to our East Coast communities as quickly as possible. It’s really disappointing that the selfish actions of a few are having a very real impact on how efficiently we can get this done,” Waka Kotahi national journey manager Helen Harris says.
“People may not realise the significance of their actions to the wider repair programme, so we are pleading with people to leave our contractors’ resources, such as diesel, for their intended use – reconnecting Tairawhiti communities as quickly as possible.”
Tairāwhiti Civil Defence also urged for patience and politeness following reports contractors were getting abuse.
“We know it’s frustrating for all but please, we ask for patience and manners so our contractors can get on and do their jobs.
“They are out there in horrendous conditions, inspecting roads, clearing slips and trees, and doing their utmost. We’ve even had to put security around sites housing heavy machinery,” it said.
Waka Kotahi maintenance and operations regional manager Jaclyn Hankin says with the ground still saturated from the floods last week, heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly and there is a chance of more road closures.
“Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.
“The road has not yet been repaired after last week’s floods in many locations on the network. There are signs, cones and temporary speed limits in many places, while we work through the most badly affected areas, so please drive carefully.
“Avoid unnecessary travel, if you must travel, drive to the conditions and take care.
“Check your intended route for hazards or disruptions before setting out and remain alert for unreported hazards, such as slips, surface flooding, downed trees and power lines, and potholes,” Hankin says.
The Government is contributing a total of $325,000 to support people and communities most affected by the floods.
This includes $175,000 towards a mayoral relief fund announced by emergency management minister Kiritapu Allan. Rural communities minister Damien O’Connor announced a further $150,000 to help the region’s farmers and growers.
Helpful links and numbers:
Farmers needing support around dealing with floods are encouraged to visit the MPI Website
- DairyNZ: 0800 4 DairyNZ (0800 432 479 69)
- Beef + Lamb New Zealand: 0800 BEEFLAMB (0800 233 352)
- Federated Farmers: 0800 FARMING (0800 327 646)
- Farmers who require wellbeing support can contact Rural Support Trust on 0800 RURAL HELP or 0800 787 254
Waka Kotahi updates:
- Facebook: facebook.com/WakaKotahiHBG(external link)
- Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiCNI(external link)
- Journey Planner website:journeys.nzta.govt.nz
