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News

Man Feared Missing in Fatal Desert Road Crash Was Not in Vehicle

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Missing Man Located After Triple-Fatal Crash on Desert Road

A man who was initially believed to be missing following a fatal two-vehicle crash on the Desert Road has been located, police confirmed. Authorities clarified that the man was not actually in the vehicle at the time of the incident.

The crash occurred on State Highway 1 near Waiouru, between Shawcroft Rd and Access Rd No 17, at approximately 2:55 am on Monday. The collision resulted in three deaths and served as the final and deadliest incident of the King’s Birthday holiday period, which spanned from 4:00 pm on Friday to 6:00 am on Tuesday.

This tragedy contributed to a total road toll of seven for the holiday period, which marks the highest recorded in a decade.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Immediately following the crash, a search and rescue operation was launched through rugged alpine terrain to locate the individual thought to be unaccounted for. A police spokesperson noted that the operation was initiated in case the person was nearby and potentially injured.

While searches were conducted, police were also making enquiries to determine if the individual was elsewhere at the time of the crash. The man was located on Monday afternoon, and police have stated there are no further concerns for his welfare.

Recurring Safety Concerns

The incident on the Desert Road marks the second fatal crash on this specific stretch of highway in just over a month. On April 27, a crash involving a car and a tanker truck on the same section of road resulted in three deaths.

Police find missing man after Desert Road crash | Focus Morning Bulletin June 2, 2026

Acting Director of Road Policing Inspector Peter McKennie has reiterated a “no tolerance” stance toward risky road usage. He noted that even well-intentioned risks can put both the driver and others in danger.

“If police see those risks, they will intervene and you will be caught,” McKennie warned, encouraging the public to report risky driving behavior.

As investigations continue, McKennie advised drivers to “continue to do the basics,” such as ensuring vehicles are in safe condition, being well-rested, avoiding alcohol or drugs, turning off cellphones, and wearing seatbelts. He emphasized that drivers must “be aware all the time and be prepared to react if something goes wrong.”

Looking Ahead

As the investigation into the causes of Monday’s crash proceeds, more details regarding the specific circumstances of the collision may be released. Given the repeated fatal incidents on this stretch of State Highway 1, authorities could potentially implement increased monitoring or intervention to address the ongoing risks to motorists.

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News

Missing Man Found After Fatal Desert Road Crash

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

WAIOURU — A tragic start to the King’s Birthday long weekend has left seven people dead on New Zealand’s roads, marking the highest holiday road toll in a decade. The latest incident, a triple-fatal crash near Waiouru in the early hours of Monday, has prompted a somber warning from authorities regarding safety on the nation’s highways.

Emergency services were alerted to the two-vehicle collision on State Highway 1, between Shawcroft Rd and Access Rd No 17, at approximately 2.55am. The New Zealand Defence Force, based at the nearby Waiouru Military Camp, was first on the scene, followed by Fire and Emergency NZ and Hato Hone St John. Crews worked to free trapped occupants from the wreckage.

1News Desert Road accident coverage

Two survivors were transported to hospital in serious condition; one was airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital, while the other was taken to Whanganui Base Hospital. Police initially reported that a person who may have been involved in the crash remained unaccounted for, but confirmed this afternoon that the individual has been located. A police spokesperson stated that there are no further concerns for the man’s welfare and that officers are currently speaking with him.

A Significant Toll

The Waiouru tragedy is part of a wider series of fatal incidents that have marred this year’s holiday period. Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing, described the overnight period—which included separate single-vehicle crashes in Auckland and Taupō—as a “horror night” for the country. The preliminary road toll for the King’s Birthday weekend, which spans from 4pm Friday to 6am Tuesday, has now reached seven, the highest level recorded since 2016.

Horror Waikato crash: Police focused on the 'why' | 1News

The significance of this morning’s crash is compounded by the history of the location. This stretch of highway, between Shawcroft Rd and Access Rd No 17, was the site of a fatal collision involving a car and a tanker truck just over a month ago, on April 27, which also resulted in three deaths.

Looking Ahead

As the long weekend concludes, inquiries into the circumstances of the Waiouru crash are ongoing. Investigators are expected to continue their work at the scene to piece together the events that led to the collision. Given the high number of fatalities, it is likely that police will maintain a heightened focus on the four primary contributors to road trauma: speed, impairment, distractions, and the use of restraints.

Motorists may face continued police presence in the area as the investigation proceeds. Authorities have urged the public to exercise extreme caution, noting that adherence to road safety rules may be the difference between reaching a destination safely or becoming part of these grim statistics.

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World

Former Manawatū Police Chief Awarded Order of Merit

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

A Legacy of Justice: How Modern Policing is Evolving Beyond the Badge

The recent recognition of Inspector Ross Grantham with the Officer of the Order of Merit serves as a powerful reminder of how the face of law enforcement is changing. With nearly 48 years of service, Grantham’s career—spanning the 1981 Springbok tour, the Wellington Trades Hall bombing, and the complex Mark Lundy investigation—reflects the shift from reactive policing to a more nuanced, evidence-based profession.

As we look toward the future, the lessons learned from decades of investigative work are being codified into new technologies and human-centric training models. Policing is no longer just about the “thin blue line”; it is becoming an exercise in data science, psychological profiling, and community diplomacy.

The Shift Toward Investigative Interviewing Excellence

One of the most significant contributions Grantham and his colleagues made was in the development of investigative interviewing doctrines. Historically, interrogations were often adversarial. Today, the trend is moving toward the PEACE model (Preparation and Planning, Engage and Explain, Account, Closure, and Evaluation), which prioritizes truth-seeking over confession-seeking.

Pro Tip: Modern investigative techniques emphasize “cognitive interviewing,” which helps witnesses recall information more accurately by recreating the context of an event rather than relying on high-pressure questioning.

Technology vs. Intuition: The Future of Cold Case Resolution

While human intuition remains the cornerstone of police work, it is increasingly supplemented by predictive analytics and forensic breakthroughs. The Lundy case, which spanned over two decades, highlighted the importance of scientific rigor in the courtroom. As DNA technology becomes more sophisticated and artificial intelligence begins to sift through vast databases of digital evidence, the time it takes to solve cold cases is shrinking.

According to The Office of Justice Programs, the integration of digital forensics into standard police training is the single largest growth area for law enforcement agencies worldwide. The ability to track digital footprints is now as critical as traditional fingerprinting.

The Human Element: Why Empathy is the Ultimate Tool

Grantham’s philosophy—that positivity, respect, and kindness are the pillars of a successful career—is gaining traction as a formal training requirement. Modern departments are realizing that community policing is the most effective way to reduce crime rates. By building trust, officers gain access to information that no amount of surveillance technology could provide.

Ross Kemp Says More Police Won't Solve Knife Crime | This Morning

FAQ: The Future of Law Enforcement

How is technology changing police investigations?
AI and advanced data analytics are allowing investigators to process complex digital evidence faster, helping solve cold cases that were once considered impossible.
What is the most important skill for a modern police officer?
While technical skills are vital, emotional intelligence and the ability to build community rapport are increasingly cited as the most effective tools for long-term crime prevention.
Will human investigators be replaced by AI?
No. While AI can analyze data, the human ability to interpret context, exercise moral judgment, and conduct empathetic interviews remains irreplaceable.

Adapting to a Changing Landscape

The challenges of the 21st century—cybercrime, mental health crises, and social polarization—require a new breed of officer. The legacy of leaders like Grantham isn’t just about the cases closed; it’s about the systems they built to ensure that the next generation is better equipped to handle the complexities of the modern world.

As we continue to observe these shifts, one thing is clear: the most successful officers will be those who balance the cold logic of technology with the warm, essential human touch of empathy and respect.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing modern police forces today? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our weekly intelligence briefing for more deep dives into the future of justice and public safety.

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News

New Māori Star Compass Unveiled in Ohakune

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

OHAKUNE — A traditional Māori star compass, known as whana tongitongi, has been unveiled at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāti Rangi in Ohakune, marking a significant step in reconnecting the next generation with ancient celestial knowledge.

The compass, named Te Tatau o Rongonui, was opened at dawn on Thursday. It serves as a kāpehu whetū—a tool for navigation and forecasting traditionally used across Polynesia. The project was led by Ngāti Rangi celestial researchers Riwaru Tihema and Rauroha Brown, who designed the structure based on traditional tribal narratives and astronomical expertise.

A Living Classroom

The whana tongitongi functions as an open-air observatory, similar to ancient stone compasses found in Tahiti and Hawai’i. By utilizing the rising and setting of the sun, moon, and stars, the structure acts as a seasonal timekeeper. Future plans involve the erection of pou (posts) around the site to align with specific geographical and celestial markers.

From Instagram — related to Ngāti Rangi, Tahiti and Hawai

For researcher Rauroha Brown, the compass represents a “memory holder,” comparing its utility to modern technology like a GPS or a smartphone. “The reason you would establish one of these whana tongitongi is they’re pretty much like a GPS, a phone or a usb [drive] – a memory holder and resource for delivering information, telling you when to plant, when to hunt,” Brown said. “Like a how-to-sustain-your-life app.”

Preserving Ancestral Knowledge

The initiative began in 2022 following a proposal by Tihema, with construction commencing the following year. The development process involved extensive cross-referencing of manuscripts and kōrero with Ngāti Rangi kaumātua to ensure the design remained grounded in kōrero tuku iho (traditional narratives).

Star Compass & Houses – Educational Video | Polynesian Cultural Center

Helen Leahy, pou ārahi/chief executive of Ngā Waihua o Paerangi, noted that the project aims to help whānau live by the stars, covering traditional practices such as tuna heke (eel migration), maara kai (food gardens), and bird migration. “They wanted to teach whānau the skills required to read, understand, implement and uphold traditional passing of knowledge from generation to generation. to maintain balance in a way that promotes wellness,” Leahy said.

Significance and Future Outlook

The installation highlights a broader history of sophisticated astronomical systems in Aotearoa. Brown noted that similar observatories, including those with water-based reflecting telescopes, exist in the Waimarino and Waiouru districts. These sites, much like Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza, were once vital for guiding agriculture and spiritual life.

Significance and Future Outlook
Te Tatau Rongonui traditional star compass design

Looking ahead, the presence of the star compass at the kura is expected to transform how students interact with their environment. Kura tumuaki (principal) Pikimai Ouknider described the unveiling as “succession in the making,” suggesting that the integration of this mātauranga (knowledge) into the daily curriculum could foster a stronger connection to heritage for the students.

As the students begin to learn the intricacies of reading the compass, the school may see an increase in the application of traditional knowledge to local gardening, hunting, and fishing practices. By awakening this ancestral understanding within the tamariki, the community hopes to ensure the long-term preservation of Ngāti Rangi’s cultural wealth.

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News

Street Racers Move to Rural Areas to Evade Police

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

By Samantha Carter, Chief Editor

The streets of Manawatū are becoming an increasingly volatile battleground as authorities struggle to contain a persistent wave of illegal street racing. Despite the implementation of targeted bylaws in Palmerston North, the anti-social road behavior has not vanished; it has simply migrated, leaving police to chase a mobile, social-media-driven subculture that appears immune to both enforcement and economic pressures.

According to Police inspector and Manawatū area prevention manager Phil Ward, the current strategy of restricting access to seven key inner-city hotspots has resulted in the “displacement” of drivers. Rather than curbing the behavior, these measures have pushed thrill-seekers into rural locations, creating a cat-and-mouse dynamic. Ward described the police efforts as feeling like “a big old ship trying to chase down a speedboat,” noting that the situation has devolved into a confrontational “police versus them” environment, undermining the primary goal of community safety.

A Growing Human and Financial Cost

The stakes are high. In 2025, an out-of-town “invasion” saw racers from across the lower North Island dominate routes between Levin and Palmerston North. The consequences were severe: four bystanders under the age of 21 were struck by vehicles, and one woman suffered injuries that resulted in both her legs being run over. During similar altercations, officers have been targeted with fireworks, and intersections have been doused in diesel and set alight.

From Instagram — related to North Island, Levin and Palmerston North

While the broader economy has seen fuel and diesel prices remain consistently high since March, these costs have done little to deter participants. Inspector Ward noted that the adrenaline and social allure of these meet-ups appear to outweigh the financial burden for the drivers involved. Meanwhile, the public cost of this behavior remains difficult to quantify. With 51% of road repair costs covered by the Government and 49% by ratepayers, the financial impact of cleaning up debris and repairing damage is significant, yet largely untracked across the Palmerston North, Horowhenua, Rangitīkei, and Tararua regions.

The Search for a Long-Term Solution

There is no single consensus on how to resolve the crisis. Horowhenua District Council’s Daniel Haigh suggests that until there is a “cultural shift” within the car community—where the desire to fit in is replaced by a respect for public safety—enforcement alone may remain insufficient. Tyler de Silva, Palmerston North City Council’s transport and development manager, advocates for a three-pronged approach: enforcement, education, and engineering.

Red Lens Podcast Episode 1: Phil Ward Interview

The recent multi-regional police operation—involving officers from Manawatū, Wellington, and Whanganui—successfully intercepted approximately 200 vehicles in a rural meet-up. However, the fact that projectiles were thrown at officers during this operation underscores the escalating tension.

What May Happen Next

Looking ahead, the tension between authorities and these mobile groups is likely to persist. If the trend of displacement continues, rural communities may see an increase in activity as drivers seek out areas with fewer restrictions. Without a broader strategy that addresses the underlying social drivers of these meet-ups, police will continue to rely on high-resource, collective responses to manage the risk of violence, and injury. Should the lack of tracking regarding the financial cost to ratepayers continue, councils may face increasing pressure to formalize how they report and recover the expenses associated with road damage and cleanup, potentially leading to more rigorous enforcement of existing bylaws in currently unaffected areas.

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Business

Manawatū Rural Petrol Station Hit Three Times in One Night

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Rising Tide of Fuel Theft: How Small Businesses Are Fighting Back

For independent fuel retailers, the forecourt is no longer just a place of commerce—it has become a high-stakes frontline. Recent incidents, such as the brazen triple-theft at a Manawatū family-owned garage, highlight a growing trend: organized fuel siphoning that targets vulnerable, small-scale operations.

As fuel prices remain volatile, the incentive for criminals to bypass traditional payment methods has surged. With police reports indicating a spike of roughly 100 extra fuel thefts per week nationally, small business owners are being forced to rethink their security infrastructure from the ground up.

The Sophistication of Modern Fuel Crime

Gone are the days of simple “drive-offs.” Modern fuel theft often involves modified vehicles—such as the red Mazda captured on CCTV in Manawatū—equipped with specialized extraction tools, including custom floor-mounted pumps. These thieves aren’t just taking a few litres; they are draining underground storage tanks.

For a family-owned station, the math is devastating. With margins often measured in mere cents per litre, the loss of 400 litres of fuel doesn’t just cut into the bottom line—it wipes out the profit entirely. When the cost of inventory for the retailer has doubled, a single night of theft can jeopardize the viability of the entire business.

Did you know?

Retailers are increasingly turning to “prepay-only” models to mitigate risk. While this protects the bottom line, it changes the customer experience, often requiring a delicate balance between security and convenience.

Shifting Trends in Retail Security

As criminals adapt, so must the industry. We are seeing a move toward “hardened” infrastructure. Beyond basic CCTV, station owners are now investing in:

Cops Expose a Clever Gas Station Fuel Theft Operation #theft #overdose #lawenforcement #policechase
  • Automated Tank Locks: Replacing standard caps with high-security, tamper-evident locking systems.
  • AI-Driven Surveillance: Cameras capable of alerting owners to suspicious loitering or unauthorized vehicle positioning in real-time.
  • Integrated Payment Systems: Moving away from post-pay pumps to minimize human intervention on the forecourt during off-peak hours.
Pro Tip:

If you operate a rural or standalone business, consult with your local police prevention manager. They often have specific “crime prevention through environmental design” (CPTED) advice that can deter opportunistic thieves without needing a massive capital investment.

The Future of the Independent Forecourt

The trend of rising fuel theft is likely to persist as long as economic pressures remain high. However, the shift toward a cashless, prepay-dominated retail environment is accelerating. For the independent operator, the focus is shifting from simply selling fuel to managing the security of the asset itself.

The challenge remains: how to maintain a welcoming environment for the local community while protecting the business from an increasingly professionalized criminal element. The answer, it seems, lies in a combination of smart technology and tighter physical security protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most effective deterrent against fuel theft?
While CCTV is essential for evidence, physical barriers like heavy-duty tank locks and shifting to a prepay-only pump system are the most effective ways to stop theft before it happens.
Are rural stations at higher risk than urban ones?
Yes, rural stations often have less foot traffic and lower visibility at night, making them prime targets for thieves who need time to operate extraction equipment.
Should I report minor fuel losses to the police?
Absolutely. Even if the value is low, reporting helps police identify patterns and allocate resources to high-risk areas.

Have you implemented new security measures at your business recently? Share your experiences in the comments below, or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more tips on small business security and industry trends.

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News

Coroner Issues Findings on Mount Ruapehu Fatality

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

By Samantha Carter, Chief Editor

A coroner’s report released this Monday into the death of 26-year-old Wednesday Davis has highlighted the grave risks of alpine mountaineering when group dynamics and environmental conditions are misjudged. Davis, a novice mountaineer, died in June 2024 after sliding approximately 250 metres down an icy slope on Mount Ruapehu.

Coroner Matthew Bates found that the climb, which the group believed would be beginner-friendly, should have been aborted when faced with hazardous conditions. According to the report, the party failed to identify a Mountain Safety Council warning regarding hard, icy terrain. As the group encountered a steep south-facing slope, they were caught unprepared by the surface conditions.

The “Expert Halo” Effect

A pivotal finding in the report is the impact of an “expert halo,” where the group deferred to the judgment of the individual they perceived as the most experienced. Despite members feeling colder and noting the difficulty of the terrain as the climb progressed, these concerns were not communicated. The coroner noted that the group’s communication was “very limited,” and rather than turning back—which the report identified as the “prudent choice”—the group continued toward Whangaehu Hut.

When Davis lost her footing and began to slide, she was unable to arrest her fall. The coroner concluded that due to the impenetrable ice, it would have been “very unlikely” for even an experienced mountaineer to stop their slide in that location.

Recommendations for Future Safety

Coroner Matthew Bates

Coroner Bates has recommended that all aspiring alpine mountaineers complete a basic, multi-day snowcraft course as an absolute minimum to gain essential safety skills. He emphasized that Mount Ruapehu is a serious alpine environment that should not be underestimated.

In response to the findings, the Mountain Safety Council has established a dedicated page for Whangaehu Hut on its “Plan My Walk” website. Chief executive Mike Daisley stated that the organization intends to continue emphasizing the importance of understanding personal skill levels and seeking professional guidance before entering dynamic alpine environments. He noted that adventurers should utilize resources like the Department of Conservation visitor centres to ensure their chosen routes align with their experience.

Looking Ahead

As the winter season approaches, the findings may lead to increased scrutiny regarding how recreational groups assess risks in New Zealand’s alpine regions. It is likely that safety organizations will continue to use the tragic circumstances of this case to advocate for better pre-trip planning and more open communication within climbing parties. For the family and friends of Wednesday Davis, the report provides answers to a long, bureaucratic process, though her father, Paul Davis, noted the lingering frustration that the group did not voice their doubts when they had the opportunity to turn back.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of high-altitude terrain, where, as the coroner concluded, “an acceptable alternative should be found, if people are not able to undertake their original plan safely.”

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News

Four charged in alleged meat, cosmetics and clothes shoplifting ring

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Police have dismantled an alleged shoplifting ring operating across the lower North Island, resulting in the arrest of four individuals following a traffic stop in Levin earlier this week.

Paraparaumu Incident Leads to Arrests

The police operation intensified at approximately 5.15pm on Thursday after officers in Paraparaumu received reports of a shoplifting in progress. Sergeant Nathan Hessell stated that three people were reportedly stealing clothing from a retailer at a local mall.

The suspects were described as aggressive and hostile when confronted by store staff. They subsequently fled the scene in a vehicle with several stolen items.

Sergeant Hessell noted that the same group allegedly stole $1700 worth of meat products from a supermarket around the same time.

Did You Know? Even as the group is accused of stealing thousands of dollars in goods, only $300 worth of stolen meat and clothing were recovered from the vehicle during the search.

Traffic Stop and Apprehensions

Police located the suspect vehicle in Levin a short time later and signalled the driver to stop. Upon stopping, one occupant immediately attempted to flee on foot but was chased, apprehended, and arrested.

From Instagram — related to Traffic Stop and Apprehensions Police, Expert Insight

Further inquiries revealed that the four individuals and their vehicle were wanted in connection with petrol drive-offs and shoplifting at several separate retail stores over recent months.

The group’s activity as well included a significant theft on Wednesday, where they allegedly stole around $4000 worth of meat and $1260 worth of beauty products, and cosmetics. None of the property from the Wednesday theft has been recovered.

Expert Insight: The rapid “off-loading” of stolen goods to family and friends, as noted by investigators, represents a calculated strategy to minimize physical evidence. By distancing themselves from the loot immediately after the crime, offenders create a significant evidentiary gap that complicates recovery efforts and prosecution.

Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions

The arrests include a 29-year-old man charged with shoplifting, trespass, and driving while disqualified. Two women, aged 18 and 19, face several shoplifting charges.

a 16-year-old was arrested for shoplifting. The adults are bailed to appear in Levin District Court next week, while the minor is scheduled to appear in the Levin Youth Court.

All four individuals were granted bail under strict conditions. These include curfews, a prohibition on associating with one another, and a ban on entering any retail store.

Ongoing Investigation

Police have indicated that the investigation is not yet complete. Several co-offenders remain unidentified, though Sergeant Hessell confirmed that police have several nominated suspects.

Ongoing Investigation
Sergeant Hessell Ongoing Investigation Police Frequently Asked Questions

Authorities intend to locate and prosecute these outstanding offenders, which may lead to further arrests as the investigation continues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What items were targeted by the alleged shoplifting ring?

The group is accused of stealing meat products, clothing, and beauty products and cosmetics.

Who was arrested in connection with these crimes?

Four people were arrested: a 29-year-old man, two women aged 18 and 19, and a 16-year-old.

What are the bail conditions for the suspects?

The suspects are subject to strict bail conditions, including curfews, non-association with each other, and a requirement that they do not enter any retail store.

Do you believe stricter bail conditions are an effective deterrent for organized retail theft?

4 Texas women charged with stealing $22K worth of cosmetics from Kohl's stores

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News

Ōhura’s locals face long recovery as emergency declaration lifted

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A local state of emergency has been lifted for the remote King Country settlement of Ōhura, though residents face a grueling recovery process after devastating floodwaters swept through the town. While the official emergency declaration has ended, many locals remain displaced from their homes a week after the deluge.

A Harrowing Escape

The flooding struck in the early hours of last Sunday morning, creating an “absolutely horrifying” ordeal for the community. Some residents were forced to escape through chest-high waters to reach safety.

Ruapehu civil defence controller Clive Manley noted that while some people were trapped in their vehicles and several cars were lost, no injuries were reported. Manley described the experience of reaching a safe place as “extremely harrowing” for those affected.

Did You Know? A mayoral relief fund has been established to support the community, starting with $50,000 in council funds.

Extensive Property and Agricultural Loss

The scale of the damage is significant, with approximately 50 homes damaged and six rendered completely uninhabitable. For those most affected, the flooding destroyed essential belongings, including furniture and whiteware.

From Instagram — related to Manley, Extensive

The impact extended beyond the town center to local farms. Manley reported that some farms lost access due to slips, suffered damaged fences and experienced stock loss.

Expert Insight: The situation in Ōhura highlights the acute vulnerability of remote settlements. When primary access roads are severed by slips and flooding, these communities become entirely dependent on localized recovery efforts and the speed of infrastructure repair to restore essential services.

The Path to Recovery

Recovery efforts are currently focused on returning residents to safe housing. The council has been pumping out septic tanks and installing de-humidifiers to dry out sodden floors and carpets.

Residents have spent the past week scraping silt and sludge from their properties and searching for animals that disappeared in the floodwaters. Extensive roading works are also required to repair slips throughout the network.

Financial Aid and Next Steps

The council is currently assessing the total cost of the damage and the recovery required. While the mayoral relief fund is active, the government has been asked to contribute to the fund, though it has not yet commented on whether it will do so.

Aliamanu burn victims face long road to recovery

Manley has also appealed to the general public for donations to help replace destroyed clothing and whiteware. Depending on the response, additional community support may be necessary to assist those who have “lost everything.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How many homes were damaged in the Ōhura flooding?

About 50 homes were damaged, with six of those being uninhabitable.

How many homes were damaged in the Ōhura flooding?
Manley Extensive Recovery

Were there any casualties during the event?

No one was injured, although some people were trapped in cars and several vehicles were lost.

What specific help is the council providing to residents?

The council has installed de-humidifiers to dry out homes and has been pumping out septic tanks.

How can remote communities better prepare for the risk of becoming completely cut off during extreme weather events?

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News

States of local emergency in Whanganui, Ōhura as heavy rain hits

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Severe weather has triggered two states of local emergency across the Manawatū-Whanganui region. Heavy rain has led to widespread flooding, landslides, and the closure of critical state highways overnight.

Whanganui District Mayor Andrew Tripe declared a state of local emergency for the district at 6:57 am on Sunday. This followed a similar declaration made by the Ruapehu District Council for the Ōhura Ward at 3:21 am.

Emergency Evacuations and Local Impacts

In the town of Ōhura, six residents were forced to evacuate their homes overnight. The Ōhura Memorial Hall has been opened to serve as a Civil Defence Centre.

Local resident Mike Crowley described the event as a “real cracker flash flood,” noting that water was knee-deep at his property and waist-deep or more on Tongaporutu Rd.

Civil Defence has warned that low-lying areas of Whanganui, including the suburb of Putiki, Taupo Quay, and Anzac Parade, could face flooding. Staff have begun door-knocking in these areas to prepare residents for possible evacuations.

Did You Know? In the Ruapehu District, approximately 100mm of rain fell within a single 24-hour period, contributing to the severe flash flooding.

Emergency evacuation centres are scheduled to open at Whanganui Girls’ College in Whanganui East and St Paul’s Church on Guyton St. Residents in Owhango have been asked to conserve water due to high turbidity in the town’s raw water source.

Infrastructure and Transport Disruptions

State Highway 3 remains closed through the Awakino Gorge after overnight rain caused further flooding and slips. NZTA crews are currently using trucks and excavators to clear the lanes.

An NZTA spokesperson confirmed that 25 truckloads of material have already been removed from the first kilometre of the gorge, though more material still needs to be cleared.

Expert Insight: The simultaneous impact across multiple regions—from the Manawatū-Whanganui emergency zones to the tornado damage in Tauranga—suggests a highly volatile atmospheric pattern. The reliance on temporary flood barriers and door-knocking evacuations highlights the immediate pressure on local civil defence resources when infrastructure is overwhelmed by rapid-onset flooding.

Tornado Damage in Tauranga

Further north, Tauranga experienced severe weather and a tornado that caused significant property damage and power outages. PowerCo reported that 75 properties in Welcome Bay lost electricity.

Tauranga City Council has closed Tye Park due to fallen trees, along with Hamilton St and Devonport Rd. Welcome Bay Rd is as well shut from the Hot Pools to Tauranga Waldorf School, a closure that is likely to remain in place into tomorrow.

Reports indicate damage to houses, including an instance where a cabin was blown onto a car in Welcome Bay. Residents have been urged to check on friends, neighbours, and whānau.

Wellington Flash Flooding Context

These events follow intense flash flooding in Wellington yesterday, which forced the closure of sections of several state highways. Wellington Region Emergency Management confirmed that one home in Porirua and 25 homes in the suburb of Stokes Valley were evacuated.

State of emergency declared in Whanganui District

Stokes Valley residents described a sudden downpour where up to 40mm of rain fell in one hour. This caused drains and manholes to fail, sending muddy water through garages, driveways, and backyards.

Weather Forecast and Outlook

MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for the eastern Bay of Plenty, with 80 to 110mm of rain expected east of the Whakatane River between 6 am and 4 pm.

Heavy rain watches are also in place for parts of South Canterbury, Gisborne, and Auckland. Forecasters indicate that unsettled conditions are being driven by a front followed by several active troughs.

Depending on the movement of these troughs, there is a moderate chance that current watches could be upgraded to warnings. Multiple agencies remain on standby as Horizons modelling suggests further flood protection assets may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can Whanganui residents go for emergency shelter?

Emergency evacuation centres will open at St Paul’s Church on Guyton St and Whanganui Girls’ College in Whanganui East.

From Instagram — related to Whanganui, Tauranga

What caused the power outages in Tauranga’s Welcome Bay?

According to lines company PowerCo, the outages affecting 75 properties were caused by a tornado.

Why are Owhango residents being asked to conserve water?

Residents have been asked to conserve water as of high turbidity found in the town’s raw water source.

How does your local community prepare for sudden flash flooding events?

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