Key Takeaways
- A checkpoint at Kaiikanui Rd is stopping traffic to enforce restrictions on non-residents visiting the storm-affected area
- Only full-time residents are allowed to pass through the checkpoint
- The rest of Whangārei district is accessible and welcoming visitors for the long weekend
- A complex geotechnical assessment is required before clearance can begin on the Helena Bay hill slip
- Residents are warned to be cautious of further slips and fallen trees due to saturated ground and strong winds
- A state of emergency remains in place across Whangārei, and people are advised not to collect shellfish or swim until it is safe to do so
Introduction to the Situation
The Whangārei district is still reeling from the effects of a recent storm, with many areas still inaccessible due to flooding and landslides. Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper is urging non-residents to stay away from the affected areas, particularly the northeast coast, as the clean-up efforts continue. The mayor has visited the affected areas, including akura, and is now asking for patience from holiday home-owners who want to check on their properties. A checkpoint at Kaiikanui Rd has been set up to enforce this restriction, and only full-time residents will be allowed to pass through.
Current Efforts and Restrictions
The Whangārei District Council is working tirelessly to clear fallen trees and slips, assess fragile sites, and restore access to areas where it is safe to do so. Rapid building assessments are also underway in the storm-affected area, with officials expected to arrive on the scene by midday on Friday. However, the council is warning that the saturated ground may cause further slips, and strong winds can take trees down more easily than usual. As a result, people are advised to exercise caution and avoid collecting shellfish for at least 28 days. Additionally, swimming is not recommended until water testing shows that it is safe to do so. The state of emergency that was declared earlier remains in place across Whangārei, and residents are urged to follow the instructions of the authorities to ensure their safety.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
Despite the challenges posed by the storm, the rest of Whangārei district is now accessible and welcoming visitors for the busy long weekend, which includes Auckland and Northland Anniversary day on Monday. The mayor is encouraging people to visit the area and support local businesses, which have been affected by the storm. However, the Helena Bay hill slip is a significant concern, and a complex geotechnical assessment is required before clearance can begin. This assessment will help determine the best course of action to take in order to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.
Warning and Precautions
The Whangārei District Council is warning residents and visitors to be aware of the potential hazards in the area, including further slips and fallen trees. The saturated ground and strong winds can cause trees to fall more easily, and people are advised to exercise caution when walking or driving in the area. Additionally, the council is advising people not to collect shellfish for at least 28 days, as the storm may have contaminated the water and made the shellfish unsafe to eat. Swimming is also not recommended until water testing shows that it is safe to do so. By taking these precautions, residents and visitors can help ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the Whangārei district is still recovering from the effects of the recent storm, and residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution and follow the instructions of the authorities. The Whangārei District Council is working hard to clear fallen trees and slips, assess fragile sites, and restore access to areas where it is safe to do so. While the rest of the district is accessible and welcoming visitors, the northeast coast remains off-limits to non-residents. By being patient and taking the necessary precautions, residents and visitors can help ensure a safe and enjoyable long weekend. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
