1665 days ago

Storm caused havoc across region

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

Rivers across Canterbury surged after what was called a one-in- 100-year downpour, pushing stopbanks to the brink and triggering rescues, evacuations, power cuts and road closures.

All residents in low-lying areas of Pines Beach were told to evacuate about 9.30am on Monday after a flood gate became stuck open, putting parts of the village at risk of flooding.

The Civil Defence Centre at Rangiora Baptist Church was open for those needing somewhere to stay.

Pines Kairaki Beach Association committee president Mandy Cooke said the area had been through earthquakes, fires and floods over the last decade and was "certainly a very resilient community".

The 'red alert' MetService issued for Canterbury last week was lifted at 8pm on Monday, and several days of settled weather was forecast next.

Water levels were easing, but a regional state of emergency remained in place. Roads were still closed and several communities either evacuated or cut off. The total cost of the disaster was only just beginning to be tallied.

A truck driver died in North Canterbury after a tree fell onto the vehicle's cab on Monday afternoon. Police could not confirm if weather played a factor.

About 20 locals in the Lees Valley were cut off after the Whistler Bridge was swept away and a huge chunk of the only access road was washed out.

A helicopter delivered groceries, people and dogs into the area on Tuesday.

See press.co.nz for full Canterbury floods coverage.

More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!

Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?

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Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
  • 79.2% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
    79.2% Complete
  • 20.8% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
    20.8% Complete
554 votes
A
13 hours ago

50% OFF SALE AT RANGIORA CITY MISSION OP SHOP.

Arthur from Rangiora

TODAY 50% off all items in our shop today Tuesday. We are in the GABLES ARCADE High Street Rangiora. The last opportunity to get some great bargains this year. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL.

29 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

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