High tide and large swells hit coastal areas
5.15pm 16 March 2015

The Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Group Coordination Centre has continued to monitor the effects of Tropical Cyclone Pam throughout the day as severe weather warnings remain in place for eastern Bay of Plenty, Gisborne and Hawkes Bay.

Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management Regional Manager Clinton Naude said that high tide brought large swells that affected some coastal areas, roads and properties especially at Waihī Beach and on the East Cape.

“With tide, wind speed and swell now dropping, we expect conditions to ease. People should continue to take care on the roads and avoid coastal areas as much as possible overnight. The next high tide is due around 3amand could bring more tidal inundation,” he said.

NZ Transport Authority, Fire Service and powerline maintenance staff responded to reports of power outages to six houses, roof damage and road debris near Waihau Bay on the East Cape today. New Zealand Transport Agency has issued a road warning for SH 35 between Hawai and Waihau Bay where debris is scattered and the sea has been breaking over the road in several locations.

Swells of 9m were recorded off the coast of Tauranga. Temporary closures have been put in place on the Moturiki (Leisure Island) and Mauao (Mt Maunganui) base walking tracks and Whakatāne Heads access road due to high seas.

Photos of storm effects around the Bay of Plenty region have been posted on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BOPCivilDefence .

The Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Coordination Centre deactivated at 5pm this evening. Civil Defence staff will continue to monitor the situation overnight through normal duty systems.

Any residents requiring assistance overnight should contact their local council, supplier or emergency services through usual channels in the first instance.

ENDS

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