Hawkes Bay Today

Some in Esk Valley, where the river has burst its banks, remain trapped – including on roofs and in cars – while parts of Napier may need to evacuate.

State Highway 5 between Napier to Taupō is also closed. The issue is causing toilets to back up. Hawke's Bay Regional Council has issued an urgent notice for residents to reduce water use as much as possible. It was not yet known when it would be restored. If evacuation is required then Police and CDEM staff will be deployed to advise residents. Eskdale, Puketapu and Waiohiki areas had been hit especially hard. Trees and branches had been brought down around the city by the wind. Taradale residents are being asked to go to St Joseph's Māori Girls' School. Omahu residents without a place to stay are being asked to go to Hastings Sports' Centre. Cellphone communication in and out of the region is patchy. * Additional welfare centres are being opened.