Floods are a common occurrence in New Zealand, but certain areas of the Whakatāne District are more susceptible to flooding due to their location between hill ranges and the river. This means that water has limited escape routes. Most of Whakatāne town is situated on flat terrain, which restricts drainage during heavy rainfall events, leading to rapid flooding.
Jump to a section: Being prepared | What to do if a flood is threatening | Who can help in an evacuation | What to do after a flood
It's important to be aware of heavy rain events that can turn into flooding. Flood waters can become dangerous in the following conditions:
- Water is travelling very fast
- Water is very deep
- Floods have risen very quickly
- Floodwater contains debris, such as trees and sheets of corrugated iron
To report surface flooding of a road or blocked stormwater drains, call us 07 306 0500 (24 hours) and we will arrange for the drains to be cleared.
In the event of an emergency, you may receive an Emergency Mobile Alert. Emergency Mobile Alert is a way of receiving information about emergencies in your area. If your life, health or property is in danger, Emergency Mobile Alerts can be sent to your mobile. You don't need to sign up or download an app.
Being prepared before a flood or heavy rain warning
Preparing for a flood can minimise damage to your property and increase your chances of survival. In the Whakatāne District, the Rangitaiki River is susceptible to flooding. If your property is on low lying rural land or you live adjacent to the Rangitaiki River, you may be at an increased risk of flooding.
Developing a plan with your family/ whānau /flatmates/friends is important so you know what to do in an emergency. This can be things like evacuation plans and having a grab bag ready to go ahead of time. There are some things you can do to protect your home or business and reduce to the risk of flooding.
Visit the Get Ready website to prepare your plan »
Get your home prepared before a flood »
If you live in the urban area of Whakatāne, you can find out if your home or business is at risk from flooding.
If you live in rural areas of Edgecumbe, Tāneatua, Awakeri, and all coastal areas, you can request a flood level report from the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.
If you are concerned your property may be at risk of flooding, you can visit the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Flood Room to discuss the possibility of a flood warning message in the event of a threatening flood.
What to do if a flood is threatening
If you are concerned, evacuate your home or business immediately. Take your grab bag and pets if you can do so quickly. Check-in on neighbours and those with disabilities.
Contact us on 07 306 0500 (24 hours) with location details so the area involved can be inspected.
If there is immediate danger or serious threat to life, call 111.
If a flood is threatening:
- Move out of the flooded area or go to the nearest high ground
- Lift household items as high above the floor as possible
- Stay out of flood water. Do not attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters unless it is essential
- Do not go sightseeing to look at the damage the flood has caused
Who can help in an evacuation
Working alongside the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Group, we will provide updates on any evolving emergency situations, as well as the location of evacuation centres. If evacuation is necessary, you may receive an Emergency Management Alert.
In an emergency, it's important to have your evacuation plan ready and your grab bag ready. Listen to emergency updates or check the relevant websites and social media pages.
Keep up to date with the latest information by listening to the radio or the following websites and social media pages
- Tune in to Radio 1XX - 90.5FM Whakatāne | 1242AM Whakatāne | 92.9FM Ōhope Beach | Listen Online
- Emergency Management Bay of Plenty Website | Check the Emergency Management Bay of Plenty Facebook page »
- Our website will have updates during an emergency situation and we post updates on our Facebook page »
You can also get useful emergency information through the following links:
- MetService website and Facebook for weather outlooks, watches and warnings
- Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency website and Facebook for traffic and travel information
- Bay of Plenty Regional Council Live Monitoring for rivers, lakes, tidal, rainfall, meteorological and air quality throughout the Bay of Plenty
- GeoNet for geological hazard information
- For electrical and telecommunications disruption updates, you will need to get in touch with your supplier.
What to do after a flood
Continue to keep up to date with the latest information.
Only return to your home when you have been advised by Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Group that it is safe to do so.
Flood water may be contaminated with sewage or other hazards, so everyone in a flooded area should take precautions to avoid exposure, especially during cleanup.
If you have not already done so, homeowners need to contact customer services to register affected properties.
Visit Get Ready for more information on cleaning up after a flood »