Flooding in Porirua abated

Heavy rain has now subsided in Porirua following a deluge this morning that caused flooding and road closures across the city.

The Porirua City Council’s Emergency Operations Centre activated at 10amwith officers from the Council, Police, Fire and Ambulance services working to assist residents and businesses affected by the floods.

Most roads have reopened although many will still be affected by debris and drivers are urged to be cautious.

At this stage, the Fire Service attended about 14 homes affected by flood waters, although that may increase as more information comes to hand.

Porirua Mayor Nick Leggett said the Council would be looking at what lessons could be learnt from today’s flooding – but in general he felt the city coped well.

“This was a big downpour –– Porirua had 36mm of rain in just one hour this morning. Roads are built to be emergency overflows for stormwater and most functioned today well today, although there are pockets where improvements will be necessary,” Mayor Nick Leggett said.

“Works carried out last year in areas like Takapuwahia and Thompson Grove, which have been badly affected in previous floods, considerably mitigated damage today. Nevertheless, we do have low lying areas such as the Mega Centre and some schools, which were damaged by the high tide and concentrated rain fall,”Mayor Leggett said.

"Special thanks also to the four community facilities who opened their doors to help affected residents –– Rangikura School, Titahi Bay School, Marearoa Marae and Horouta Marae."

“It's been a tough couple of weeks, but Porirua once again showed we're a resilient community with a huge heart. We never fail to look after one another in times of need," Mayor Leggett said.

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