Northland residents are bracing for severe weather as specialist rescue teams are deployed to the region. A red weather warning is in effect, with the heaviest rainfall expected Thursday afternoon.
Preparing for Impact
Fire and Emergency (FENZ) assistant national commander Ken Cooper stated that crews are being pre-positioned to respond effectively. Seventeen specialists are being deployed to Northland, with an additional eight in Auckland. FENZ is pre-positioning specialist water rescue and urban search and rescue teams, recognizing the challenges of covering a large geographic area.
Cooper advised residents to monitor news and alerts and to evacuate if they feel life or property is at risk. He specifically noted that the upper part of Northland is forecast to receive a large amount of rainfall in a short period, urging those in low-lying areas or near rivers to prepare to move.
Community Response
Marae throughout the region have opened their doors to provide support for those in need. Max Thompson, a resident of Mokau near Ōakura, is staying at Mokau marae after the creek crossing to his home was washed out. He noted that communities and marae have been building capacity to respond to these events.
The approaching storm is likewise impacting local businesses. Robynne Cooper, owner of the Whangaruru beachfront camp, reported an 80 percent cancellation rate this summer and expressed concern about the sustainability of her business.
Ngātiwai kaiwhiriwhiri Jude Thompson, of Tūparehuia/Bland Bay, noted that communities are prepared to be independent and seem after themselves, as they were individually cut off during previous events. As of 10:30pm, Northpower reported around 1500 homes without power in Aranga, Mamaranui, Kamo and Whangaruru.
Looking Ahead
Residents are anxious given the recent history of severe weather in the region, including widespread flooding in January and a significant slip at the southern end of Whangaruru that requires travel in convoy. Further power outages and disruptions to travel will occur as the storm intensifies. It is also likely that communities will continue to rely on marae for shelter and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FENZ doing to prepare?
Fire and Emergency (FENZ) is pre-positioning specialist water rescue and urban search and rescue teams across the region, deploying 17 specialists to Northland and eight to Auckland.
What is the immediate threat?
A red weather warning is in place for Northland, with the worst of the downpours expected Thursday afternoon, bringing a large amount of rainfall in a short period of time.
Where can residents find support?
Marae in the region have been opened for those in need of support, and residents are encouraged to utilize these resources if necessary.
As Northland prepares for the worst of the storm, how will communities balance immediate safety concerns with the long-term impacts on livelihoods and mental wellbeing?
