Help is available says Civil Defence

Monday July 16, 2007

Around 140 homes in the Rodney District and on Auckland’s North Shore are still without power after being hit by last week’s extreme weather conditions.

Auckland region group controller Harry O’Rourke says that tangible support options are available to those who are without power, heating and water.

“Vector teams are spread across the Auckland region and are working under pressure to restore power to the remaining 140 or so homes. Some of these properties are in remote locations and require specialist work to repair lines.

“Many people have been coping without power for up to six days and I urge them to use the 0800 number and ask for help if they need it. Local councils are working with Vector and the Ministry of Social Development to provide generators, food and water and alternative accommodation to those in need.

“This storm has shown us all how weather conditions can impact upon on our daily lives and how cooperation between local councils, government agencies and service providers like Vector is vital. These groups have been co-ordinating their response to customers for the past week.”

The Government emergency response helpline (0800 779 997) is available to all those who need assistance as a result of last week’s storm.

What is being done?

Vector and the Ministry of Social Development are endeavouring to contact each of the properties still without power to confirm the help available to them and check what they might require in the way of assistance.
Rodney District Council and North Shore City Council are responding to requests for help from households and businesses, such as rest homes, in their areas by providing emergency power supplies, heating and lighting and food.
The Minister of Civil Defence today issued a statement confirming additional Cabinet-approved funding to meet response and recovery costs for all affected communities in the upper North Island.

Useful websites

Auckland Region Civil Defence www.auckland.cdemg.org.nz
Visit the Rodney District Council website (www.rodney.govt.nz) for further information about welfare and assistance provided by RDC, including hot showers, emergency requests and power supply.
www.vector.co.nz for latest updates on power supply issues
For further information please contact:

Auckland region group controller, Harry O’Rourke 021 687 204

Communications and media, Jo Davidson 09 366 2000 x8071 or 021 331 634