Flooding and evacuations in Buller District
A RED Heavy Rain Warning has been issued for Buller District with rain forecast through Friday evening.
This rain is expected to cause dangerous river conditions and significant flooding. Slips and floodwaters are likely to disrupt travel, making some roads impassable and possibly isolating communities.
With the Buller river continuing to rise, some residents have been instructed to evacuate their homes either staying with friends/family outside the affected areas or go to one of the seven welfare centres set up around the town.
The households asked to evacuate are those on the fringes of Carters Beach, Snodgrass, and the following areas in Westport: Gladstone St and Russell St intersection and nearby areas. Colvin St and Rintoul St, Menzies St, Roebuck St, Bentham St, Disraeli St and Westport Domain Area.
Here's what you need to know:
- The Buller river is rapidly rising leading to flooding and possibly isolating areas.
- Non-essential travel should be avoided.
- Evacuees are asked to leave their homes with their medicines, food, water, radio, torch, warm clothes and blankets.
- Call 111 if you feel that your life, health or property is in danger.
You can keep up to date through the Buller District Council website
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59.3% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
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Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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43.1% I want to be able to choose.
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47.2% Against. I want to deal with people.
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