Evacuation update - Now safe for residents to return to their homes

We are pleased to let you know the evacuation order has now been lifted for the Ōhope residents (on West End & Harbour Road) who were required to evacuate.

This means it is now safe to return to your whare / home However, there are two key things to note:

This is a controlled re-entry to West End Road, Ōhope. This means that for now, the road is open to residents only. Police will remain on site for a few more hours, at which stage the road will then re-open to the public. Please allow residents space to return to their homes safely.

For West End residents - it's really important you stay vigilant for any sign of movement / instability in the escarpment (cliff) behind you. If you feel unsafe at any stage, please self-evacuate and call us right away on 07 306 0500.

We'd like to extend a big mihi / thanks to all residents involved in yesterday's evacuation. We know this was an incredibly anxious time and we really appreciate your understanding, co-operation, and the kindness shown to our staff supporting you with this transition. Thanks also to the many whānau / family and friends who reached out to provide accommodation and kai for those who needed it, and to the staff at the Emergency Evacuation Centre who calmed the nerves of many.

What a fabulous community we have - we are so proud to be part of it.

This morning a National State of Emergency was declared. So, what does this mean?

No need to panic e te whānau – it’s basically a way to ensure greater coordination of resources across the mōtū / country.

We're very grateful our District is faring pretty well, and our thoughts and aroha are with those dealing with very serious situations throughout the North Island

Because we're dealing with similar issues around the mōtū, it makes sense for all the Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to work as one across all the regions. This ensures every area gets the support it needs and resources are used efficiently.

We know it can be a bit confusing, so here are some answers to a few questions:

Is the government stepping in to take over now?

No. Things will still get done by local authorities (like us) in local communities, but NEMA can now support and connect the emergency work in affected regions to make sure everyone gets suitable support - whether it’s a big city or a tiny settlement.

What will change for communities?

A lot of what happens in a national response to an emergency is behind the scenes - making sure resources and support goes where it is needed. So it won't look any different for you - we're still here supporting you.

What can I do to help?

The Whakatāne District is under control in terms of 'on the ground' help. However, we know lots of communities in different areas are in the thick of the response right now. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to volunteer or contribute to relief efforts through councils and community groups once people know what is needed.

Additional Update 11:20am

As expected, Whakatāne Heads is a bit of a mess with logs and debris strewn all over the boat ramp area.

Currently the flood gates are up which means we can't get our contractors in to clean up the area and make it safe.

Until this mahi / work is completed, we ask that you please stick to the paths and do not enter the taped off area.

Tēnā koutou i ngākaunui mai / thanks for your understanding

There are multiple road closures across the rohe - we'll update these as the situation evolves.

• Galatea Road closed - From Galatea / Jolly Road intersection through to Whirinaki / Troutbeck intersection - Trees have fallen over the road and onto power lines.
• SH2 Matatā Straights closed - Four large slips. Two logging trucks are trapped between slips however those involved are safe. NOTE - The road is likely to remain closed for 24hrs. Go to Waka Kotahi Journey Planner for the latest updates.
• SH30 Rotomā closed - Multiple slips
• Thornton Hall Road closed at end of road - Flooding
• West End, Ōhope closed - Cordon in place
• Villis Glade, Ōhope closed - Cordon in place

Be sure to report anything URGENT you see to 07 306 0500, and any non-urgent issues can be logged online via our Fix it form.

Our Emergency Operations Centre kept a close eye on Cyclone Gabrielle overnight and its effects on the Whakatāne District. A regional State of Emergency for Bay of Plenty was declared at 8pm Monday 13 February, which allows us to act more quickly to get the things we need to respond when lives and property are at risk.

The high tide passed here in the Whakatāne District at 1:30am and we have had no reports of significant inundation and the swell now appears to be dropping.

However, this is not the time to start being complacent as we are still expecting another high tide and potential storm surges early Tuesday (14 February) arvo.

Our message is clear... prepare for potential flooding in coastal and low-lying areas and consider self-evacuation if you have concerns for your safety.

Emergency evacuation centre

An emergency evacuation centre at Whakatane War Memorial Hall for evacuated people who cannot stay with friends and whanau. This is open right now.

Road closures

We are aware there were impacts across the District with road closures, trees down and landslips.

Here are the current closures on local roads:

• West End Road - Closed (with Police presence)
• Villas Glade – Closed (with Police presence)
• Thornton Hall Road - Closed from last property to beach
• Thornton Beach Road - Open with caution due to surface flooding
• Western Drain Road – Closed (between #213 and #237)

Matatā Straight

Through Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency we can confirm the Matatā Straight is closed due to multiple slips. The road is closed between Herepuru Road and Old Coach Road.

Go to Waka Kotahi Journey Planner for the latest updates.

Power outages could happen! So be ready.

• Keeping your mobile phone charged 
• Having a torch and spare batteries handy
• Storing cooking fuel, such as gas for your BBQ
• Using a surge protection on your devices
• Water pumps in rural areas may not work when the power is off. To prepare, make sure you store emergency water supplies for drinking and washing. 
• Call 111 when life or personal safety is threatened. That includes when there is a fire, when people are trapped by floodwater, slips or fallen trees and when people need help to evacuate safely.
• Stock up on long-lasting food that doesn’t need cooking (unless you have a camping stove or gas barbecue) and food for babies and pets.

Escarpments

With the ground very soggy and the rain continuing to fall, people who live or work near cliffs and steep slopes (escarpments) should keep an eye out for any instability.

This includes movements of trees or the slope, cracks in the earth, ground slumpage, or dislodged boulders suspended in vegetation on the escarpment face.

While not wanting to trigger undue anxiety, it’s important to be aware of the potential risk of landslides at any time.

Council reminds residents of the following precautions when living near escarpments:

• Residents whose properties are at the base of escarpments are advised to not occupy the rear ground floor rooms of their dwellings until 24 hours after each rainfall event has ended.
• Sleep in a room on the opposite side from the escarpment.
• Residents at the top of escarpments should monitor the ground adjacent to the escarpment edge for any sign of ground cracks or tree instability, and contact Council with any concerns.
• If you are concerned about escarpment stability, consider self-evacuating to a location where there is no landslide hazard.

Remember to stay off our beaches!

We know watching Mother Nature doing her thing can be quite appealing, but rogue waves and big surges breaching dunes can endanger beachgoers. Please stay off beaches to ensure we all stay safe. 

Be kind

We know things have been a little bit hectic out there over the last couple of days. With so much information being shared and broadcast it can all be a little bit overwhelming, which can cause some nervousness and anxiety.

But your Emergency Operations Team want to assure you we are all in this together and we are working day and night through this emergency to ensure our communities are safe.

Our Emergency Operations Centre is very closely monitoring Cyclone Gabrielle and its effects on the Whakatāne District. A state of local emergency was declared for Whakatāne at 3pm today and mandatory evacuation is now required for parts of Ōhope. Here’s the latest info to help keep you and your whānau safe.

Mandatory evacuation now required for parts of Ōhope

 A mandatory evacuation order now applies to:

• all homes in West End Ōhope, up to and including Beach Point Apartment complex.
• approximately 9 homes identified on Harbour Road, Port Ōhope that are particularly low-lying.

Residents have been / are in the process of being contacted.

A road block is in place at the start of West End and is being managed by Police. Those who must evacuate from affected properties will have until 7pm to leave.

The mandatory evacuation will be in place until 3pm Tuesday. Re-entry will be reassessed tomorrow after high tide at 1.35pm.

For more information regarding this mandatory evacuation see the Mandatory evacuation fact sheet 

Prepare for potential flooding in coastal and low-lying areas

Storm surge could cause a significant coastal inundation (flooding) threat to low-lying areas with large waves of 6 – 8 meters (or more) expected onto eastern coasts of the North Island.

In particular, we’re concerned about high tide in the early hours of tomorrow morning. High tide is expected at 1.30am Tuesday 14th February. In addition, we are expecting a period of heavy rain in the hours just before. This means some flooding is likely to occur across our rohe / region, especially in low-lying areas in and around Ōhiwa Harbour and West End, Ōhope.

If you live outside a flooding zone, or outside of Ōhope...

Even if your place isn’t listed above, and hasn’t been told to evacuate, if you feel unsafe at any stage, please self-evacuate – no matter where you are across the rohe / region. A dedicated Emergency Evacuation Centre is open now at Whakatāne War Memorial Hall.

Even if you're outside a flooding zone, you still need to be prepared. 

Power outages could happen – be prepared by:

• Keeping your mobile phone charged 
• Having a torch and spare batteries handy
• Storing cooking fuel, such as gas for your BBQ
• Using a surge protection on your devices
• Water pumps in rural areas may not work when the power is off. To prepare, make sure you store emergency water supplies for drinking and washing. 
• Call 111 when life or personal safety is threatened. That includes when there is a fire, when people are trapped by floodwater, slips or fallen trees and when people need help to evacuate safely.
• Stock up on long-lasting food that doesn’t need cooking (unless you have a camping stove or gas barbecue) and food for babies and pets.

Stay away from beaches

Stay off beaches! We know watching Mother Nature doing her thing can be quite appealing, but rogue waves and big surges breaching dunes can endanger beachgoers. Please stay off beaches, ensure our tamariki / children are aware of this risk, and that our four-legged friends aren’t put in danger either.

Road updates

• West End Road - Closed from 6pm with Police presence
• Villas Glade - Closed from 6pm with Police presence
• Thornton Hall Road - Closed from last property to beach
• Thornton Beach Road - Open with caution due to surface flooding

Kerbside Rubbish Services

Tuesday rubbish pick-ups are all go, but we’ll let you know if this changes. 

Information for campers

We’ve been in touch with all of our coastal low-lying campgrounds across our rohe / region and most are now closed. With the help of NZ Police, we’ll continue checking in to ensure any newcomers are moved on safely to an alternative place.

Information for boaties

Over the next few days (at least up until Thursday at this stage) please avoid recreational activities on or near the water, as storm conditions can cause turbulent and unsafe waters, and coastal inundation is expected. The flood walls have been activated at the Whakatāne Boat Ramp.

Information for schools

Most kura / schools across the rohe have made the call to close tomorrow. We encourage you to continue to stay up to date with your school community via your school website, social media platforms and apps – or give them a call.

State of Local Emergency Declared for Whakatāne

A state of local emergency was declared at 3pm today by Whakatāne District Acting Mayor Lesley Immink.

The declaration provides additional Emergency Management powers to the District Controller and enables the Civil Defence response to call on support from outside the district if required.

Emergency Management powers allows our response team to do things like close off areas, evacuate people and get the resources needed to respond to this event.

A mandatory evacuation order now applies to:

• all homes in West End Ōhope, up to and including Beach Point Apartment complex.
• approximately 9 homes identified on Harbour Road, Port Ōhope that are particularly low-lying. 

There is approximately 100 properties in total that are affected by the above mandatory evacuation. These residents will be contacted directly.

Police are here with us in the Emergency Operations Centre and are aware of security concerns that people may have leaving their homes and are planning accordingly.

A road block will be in place at the start of West End and managed by Police from early this evening. Those who must evacuate from affected properties will have until 7pm to leave.

The mandatory evacuation will be in place until 3pm Tuesday. Re-entry will be reassessed tomorrow after high tide at 1.35pm.

Our strong recommendation to consider self-evacuation continues for all other parts of Ōhope and Port Ōhope that are exposed to storm surge.

A dedicated Emergency Evacuation Centre has been set up at Whakatāne War Memorial Hall and opened at 12noon today for those who must, or choose to evacuate, and do not have family or friends to go to.

We urge all residents to keep up to date with the District’s response to Cyclone Gabrielle here and via our website, and listen to local radio stations 1XX and Sun FM.

Kia Kaha Whakatāne District - We're all in this together

Unauthorised text message causes confusion

Whakatāne District Council understands there is a hoax text message circulating amongst the community incorrectly stating all Whakatāne and Ōhope residents must self-evacuate before midnight tonight.

Local Controller Nicholas Woodley stresses this message is not verified nor authorised by Whakatāne District Council and urges members of the community to disregard the false information. 

Council confirms there is currently no mandatory evacuation in place for anyone in the Whakatāne District.

However, those living in flood-prone areas or areas that could be inundated with coastal surges are encouraged to seriously consider self-evacuating until midday, Wednesday 15 February.

This includes people living in and around:

• Ōhiwa Parade, Liddon Cove, and low-lying parts of Harbour Road alongside Ōhiwa Harbour.
• West End, Ōhope to the Allied Petrol Station (note – this applies to those living on the coastal/beach side of Pohutukawa Ave section only).

Council urges the community to stay updated with official Council information via our website and Facebook page.

Emergency Evacuation Centre

A dedicated Emergency Evacuation Centre has been set up at Whakatāne War Memorial Hall and will open at 12noon today for those who have been recommended to evacuate their properties and cannot do so to family and friends.

Act now. Be prepared and have your grab bags ready to go

A Civil Defence Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has been activated in Whakatāne to help ensure essential services and welfare needs are maintained during the Cyclone Gabrielle response. 
With rain now starting to fall and strong winds forecast in the Whakatāne District, now is the time to start thinking about what you might need to self-evacuate. Especially those residents who live near coastal and low-lying areas around the Whakatāne District.

Aroha mai – we know this may cause nervousness and anxiety, but now is the time to get ready so you are prepared. Please share this information with your whānau, friends and neighbours – and especially check in on senior members of our communities.

Potential flooding in coastal and low-lying areas

Cyclone Gabrielle is edging closer to the District, and we’re expected to feel the force from tomorrow (Monday) and throughout Tuesday. 

Metservice New Zealand has already issued a strong wind warning and a heavy rain watch for our area, which means it has the potential to make for a significant weather event. 

Seriously consider preparing to evacuate

Especially if you are in areas that are prone to flooding or areas that are going to be inundated with coastal surges. This includes people living in and around:

• Ōhiwa Parade, Liddon Cove, and low-lying parts of Harbour Road alongside Ōhiwa Harbour.
• West End, Ōhope to Miller Stream (coastal/beach side of Pohutukawa Ave only).

These households should now seriously consider self-evacuating from midday Monday 13 February until midday Wednesday 15 February.

High tides

Have a plan. We’re concerned about Tuesday’s high tide which is expected at 1.30am 14 February. People should be prepared and making alternative arrangements to avoid a panicked evacuation during the night. To be safe, we’re recommending people to prepare for at least two nights away from their home.

Dedicated welfare centres

Being prepared means knowing where to get help if you need. We are setting up dedicated welfare centres and we will ensure you know where they are, how to get there, and what to expect in due course.

Avoid non-urgent travel

People in all areas affected by the predicted heavy rain and strong winds are being asked to avoid any non-urgent travel. If you must travel make sure you’re checking for the very latest weather conditions with MetService, and the latest road closures via the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner.

It's also good to remember in an emergency, roads can be closed for days because of flooding/slips. Make sure you have enough supplies, including any medicine and special items you might need.

Power outages

Loss of power is a likely scenario during Cyclone Gabrielle, here are some handy tips to ensure you’re prepared.

• Keep your mobile phone charged
• Have a torch and spare batteries handy. 
• Store cooking fuel, such as gas for your BBQ. 
• Consider using a surge protection on your devices.
• Water pumps in rural areas may not work when the power is off. To prepare, make sure you store emergency water supplies for drinking and washing.

And remember to make a grab bag and have emergency supplies. 

Kerbside Rubbish Services

Kerbside collection is business as usual, however we do ask if people can, they take their bins off the kerbside once they have been emptied.

Animal welfare

Your animals are your responsibility. You need to include them in your planning in the event of an emergency.

• If you have to evacuate, take your pets with you – if you can do so safely – or take them to a safe shelter place. 
• If you have to leave your animals behind, make sure they’re in a secure and sheltered place either inside or outside your home. 
• If you have livestock or horses in paddocks near waterways that have the potential to flood (streams, rivers etc.), move them to higher ground.

Information for schools

At this stage, it is up to the individual school to determine if they will close. Please ensure you are connected with your school, and touch base with them directly for updates or check out their Facebook pages.

Remember, you do not need to wait for a formal evacuation order to move to safety. we are continually monitoring this situation and will provide updates.

A community wide issue requires a community wide response. Please share this information with your whānau, friends and neighbours and in particular, those who live near coastal and low-lying areas around the Whakatāne district.

Prepare for potential flooding in coastal and low-lying areas

Whakatāne District is set to feel the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle on Monday and Tuesday.

Of note, storm surge could cause a significant coastal inundation (flooding) threat to low lying areas with large waves of 5 - 7meters (or more) expected onto northern and eastern coasts of the North Island.

So, what does this mean?

Some coastal flooding is likely to occur across our rohe / region - especially in low-lying areas.

In particular, we’re concerned about high tide in the early hours of Tuesday. High tide is expected at 1.30am Tuesday 14th February – and as a precaution we encourage anyone in low-lying areas who believe their home may be at risk, to consider self-evacuating ahead of time and making prior arrangements with whānau, family and friends to avoid a panicked evacuation during the night.

Aroha mai – we know this may cause nervousness and anxiety, but now is the time to get ready and be prepared. Make and practice your emergency plan with those living in your whare / home, put together a grab bag (a simple Google search will tell you key items to include) and have emergency supplies in case you need to evacuate.

IF EVACUATION IS NECESSARY ANYWHERE ACROSS OUR ROHE / REGION A DEDICATED WELFARE CENTRE WILL BE ESTABLISHED. We will ensure you know where this is / they are, how to get there, and what to expect.

Remember, we are continually monitoring this situation and will provide updates.

Sandbags

Sandbags can be used to divert water away from your house or other buildings. They can be used to block doorways, drains, and other openings into properties, as well as to weigh-down manhole covers, garden furniture, and to block sink, toilet, and bath drains, to prevent water backing up. If you need some at your place, contact Tracks Concrete directly on 07 307 0581 - note, there is a cost involved.

Kerbside Rubbish Services

We are closely monitoring the situation and what this means for kerbside rubbish services on Monday/Tuesday. We’ll keep you posted about whether we need to postpone collections or if they’ll go ahead as usual. Watch this space.

Information for campgrounds

There are a number of coastal low-lying campgrounds across our rohe / region and we will be keeping operators, and guests informed about the impending forecast, and if an evacuation is required. 
If you are told to evacuate, please follow the evacuation advice – it’s really important. Self-evacuate if you feel unsafe. Remember, if evacuation is necessary, we will have a dedicated welfare centre running. 

Low-lying coastal areas are going to be particularly vulnerable during Cyclone Gabrielle, especially around high tide – our advice at this stage is to re-think your camping mission if you are planning one in the Whakatāne District over the next few days.

Put safety first. Don't take any chances. Act quickly if you see rising water.

Information for boaties

Over the next few days (at least up until Thursday at this stage) please avoid recreational activities on or near the water, as storm conditions can cause turbulent and unsafe waters, and coastal inundation is expected.

If your boat is docked, don't go out at all on the water. Check mooring lines and fitting are secure and in good condition, ensure loose items are stored away or secured, and hatches and seacocks are closed. If you’re in a position to move your boat out of the water, this could be a good idea to prevent any potential damage.

Information for schools

At this stage, It’s Business as Usual for schools next week. Should there be any changes, the individual school will communicate this info through their usual channels and their Facebook pages. Please ensure you are connected with your school, and touch base with them directly for updates.

The severity of the weather we will experience is highly dependent on the track of Cyclone Gabrielle so we encourage you to watch this space, and use this time to get prepared.

With potential for heavy rain and strong winds, coastal inundation, surface flooding and slips are possible and strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures.

So, how can you and your whānau get prepared and keep safe?

1. Stay up to date with the latest weather warnings from MetService
2. Make a household plan that includes your pets, and ensure everyone living in your whare / home understands the plan - in case you need to evacuate.
3. Have a grab bag with essential items ready to go.
4. Be prepared for possible power outages and check emergency supplies. 
5. Clear debris and leaves from drains and gutters to help prevent surface flooding - and if you need a ladder, do this preferably before the wind starts.
6. Secure items like wheelie bins, trampolines, outdoor furniture, boats and trailers. Bring items inside or tie items down that could move in strong winds.
7. Check on your friends, whānau, neighbours and anyone who might need your help. Have they got everything they need?
8. It's a good idea to stay off beaches. Storm surges could make shorelines dangerous and unpredictable.
9. If your whare / home is prone to flooding, or near the coast / harbour, now's the time to consider getting some sandbags at the ready. If you need some at your place, contact Tracks Concrete directly on 07 307 0581 - note, there is a cost involved.
10. With the ground already soggy and further rain forecast, people who live or work near cliffs and steep slopes (escarpments) should keep an eye out for any instability. If you live near cliffs or steep slopes (escarpments), read and follow the recommendations of our important information for Whakatāne and Ōhope residents living or working close to escarpments.

As always, you can get in touch with us, to report any urgent issues to 07 306 0500, anything non-urgent can be logged through our online Fix it and report a problem form.

If the situation poses an immediate serious threat to people's lives or safety, please dial 111.

Our team are our standby and we're asking everyone to take the next couple of days to get prepared.