Landslip in Point Howard
A large slip has come down in Lower Hutt, rupturing a gas line and taking out powerlines. Officers responded to calls of a landslip in Point Howard on Howard Point Rd about 9.50am today. Residents have been urged to stay indoors as the landslip has taken a chunk out of the residential road.
Wellington Water said the slip was caused by a burst water pipe last night and when it was assessed this morning it had dislodged a power pole.
“Fire and Emergency are on-site as the power lines are arcing on the road, and the road is closed. The slip has also caused a breach in a gas line, and the team is awaiting attendance from the Gas Utility.”
There is also a further leak on the drinking water pipe, but it cannot be repaired until the other utilities recommend it’s safe.
FENZ shift manager Chris Dalton says five fire service vehicles are there including three trucks and fire services are still working on trying to isolate the gas.
What you need to know:
- The council said there had been no deaths or injuries as a result of the slip.
- Fire and emergency were urging people to stay inside their homes while they assessed the situation to ensure power and gas services were safe.
- The council asked residents to conserve water, avoid flushing toilets and other unnecessary water usage.
- Houses have been evacuated and people are urged to avoid Howard Rd at Point Howard.
If any residents have safety concerns, they should call 111 immediately.
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.6% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
We're taking the bus!
The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.
Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.
It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.
It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.
With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?
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