Residents cleared to return home with caution
If you were mandatorily or voluntarily evacuated, you are now cleared to return home - if you feel it is safe to do so.
Council staff, alongside the New Zealand Defence Force Army, have completed an initial visual assessment of affected areas. While this is a positive step, risks still remain. We want to be very clear: even where the weather appears to ease, serious risks remain. These include fallen trees, unstable structures, flooding, debris on roads, downed power lines and landslides.
Returning home
If you feel comfortable, it is okay to return home.
West End residents
If you choose to return home, please be aware you are doing so at your own risk.
Geotechnical assessments of the escarpments are currently underway.
Anyone living near cliffs or escarpments
Anyone across the district who lives near a steep cliff, slope or escarpment should be alert for any signs of movement.
Watch for signs of movement (cracks, slips, unusual sounds), and consider sleeping in a front room or away from steep banks overnight.
Ongoing hazards
Multiple hazards remain across the district. Please continue to take care and make safe choices.