Whakatāne District Council has activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) at 1pm today, in response to the severe weather affecting the Bay of Plenty.
The activation follows MetService New Zealand’s escalation of the Heavy Rain Warning from Orange to Red, with forecasts indicating significant additional rainfall of 180-240mm, on top of what has already fallen. Conditions are expected to remain volatile, with heightened risks of flooding, slips, road closures, and potential community isolation.
“Our decision to activate the EOC reflects the seriousness of this weather event and the level of risk it poses to our communities,” says Whakatāne District Local Controller, Mike Avery.
“Rainfall totals are high, river levels are rising, and impacts could escalate quickly. Operating the EOC allows us to coordinate resources, share real-time information, and respond swiftly.”
A full shift of trained Emergency Management staff are working closely with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Flood Room, emergency services, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, and neighbouring councils to monitor river levels, assess impacts, and coordinate a response as conditions develop. Council staff will continue responding overnight and tomorrow.
Residents are urged to prioritise safety, keep off roads, and stay well clear of floodwaters. People in low-lying or high-risk areas, or those living or working near steep cliffs, should be prepared to self-evacuate if they feel unsafe.
Council encourages residents to check in on whānau, neighbours, and anyone who may need extra support, particularly the elderly or those with limited mobility. An Emergency Evacuation Centre has not been opened at this stage, but one will be established if deemed necessary.
A National Civil Defence emergency alert has also been issued. This is a precautionary measure to keep the community informed and ready - it does not mean immediate danger for everyone, but it is a signal to stay alert and follow safety guidance.
The public are asked to report urgent issues by calling 07 306 0500, while non-urgent reports or requests can be logged at whakatane.govt.nz/fixit.
To keep up to date with the district’s response to this severe weather event, follow the Council’s Facebook page, website, and listen to local radio stations 1XX and Sun FM.
Weather event details | Bay of Plenty Civil Defence | Whakatāne District Council Facebook page