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.