Be prepared for stormy conditions and possible power outages

Annette Lambly-Robinson Reporter from Whangārei Leader

Around 1300 people lost their power for about 15 minutes around 1.43pm today - with 174 still out on Mangakahia Rd.
Thank goodness we have people prepared to go out in all weather to rectify these issues,

Northpower is encouraging its electricity consumers to be prepared for storm conditions overnight.

Public Affairs Manager Steve Macmillan says the company is gearing up for a potentially rough few days with additional lines crews, arborists and telephonists on stand-by.

“After a sustained period of extremely dry conditions, the heavy rain that is being forecast for Northland could cause slips which could take out power poles. There is also increased likelihood of land movement causing trees to damage powerlines and if flooding hits we could be delayed getting to some areas of Kaipara and Whangarei – as we experienced in 2014.

“We would encourage people to be prepared for possible outages by having torches and battery powered radios at hand, mobile phones charged, fresh water available and gas cooking facilities ready.

“We also urge people to call Northpower faults on 0800-10-40-40 to advise of outages or potential causes of outages. If there are outages overnight our crews will do their best to attend to what they can but if any major repairs are required they will be made in daylight,” says Mr Macmillan.

People should stay clear of downed lines and keep others away also.

Recorded outage and restoration updates will be made on the Northpower Faults line (0800-10-40-40) and listed on www.northpower.com...