Wairoa continues to respond to flooding impacts following the breaching of the Wairoa River in the Kopu Road and Kihitu areas last night. 

Of the properties inspected so far, eight residential homes and one commercial property have been confirmed as yellow placard status based on the flooding impact. Yellow placards are not issued for outbuildings and garages.

MBIE has been activated to support temporary accommodation where needed. Building assessments and welfare needs will continue this evening and tomorrow. 

Four of the yellow placarded homes are on Kopu Road, two on Grant Street and two at Kihitu. 

The State of Emergency, which was declared last night, was lifted at 3:34pm today, as the information provided indicated there was no longer a threat to lives and property. 

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little said the decision to lift the State of Emergency was made in conjunction with emergency services.

"While the recent flooding event has had a significant impact on our communities, the immediate risks that necessitated the declaration have now reduced to the point where the extraordinary powers provided under the emergency declaration are no longer required," Mayor Little says.

The Civil Defence Centre at the War Memorial Hall has also been closed, with evacuees able to return to their own homes, stay with friends and family or be relocated. The centre can be reactivated if needed. 

There is a high occurrence of wandering stock and dogs. This is likely due to damaged fences and enclosures.

Stock and pet owners are urged to be vigilant and ensure livestock cannot access roads or waterways and that dogs are secured in a controlled manner. 

If you see wandering stock or dogs or have any other animal-related concerns, please phone the Council 24-7 on 06 838 7309. 

Rurally, there are a number of roads impacted, and crews are working across the district to gain access where possible, with some roads having been opened. Driver caution is advised.

Closed roads include: 

SH38 

Heath Road – Closed at the low-level bridge 

Hereheretau Road – Closed at both low-level bridges 

Glenbrook Road – Closed at the first low-level bridge 

Kotare Road – Closed at low-level bridge 

Putere Road – Closed at RP:36.500km 

Mohaka Coach Road – Closed Fallen trees 

Murphy Road – Closed at the ford 

Tiniroto Road – Closed overnight for safety reasons 

Mangapoike Road – Open to Tukemokihi Station 

For up-to-date road closures, visit:  

Wairoa District Council roading page:https://www.wairoadc.govt.nz/services/roading/  

NZTA Journey Planner: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner 

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little acknowledged that the heavy rain and flooding brought a very uncertain and difficult time for many.

"My heart goes out to those people who have lost so much, both in town and in rural communities who are impacted and, in many cases, still isolated.

"The tremendous local response further highlights how important it is for Wairoa to maintain its local voice.

"Our future starts with our own community, and I would like to sincerely thank all those people whose skill and knowledge formed part of a very streamlined response at a time when roads were closed, and Wairoa was difficult to access. 

"I am grateful to everyone who has supported us, from Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell and other local MPs, our local Civil Defence team, to emergency services, the people on the roads, the teams getting the power back on and those in the community who supported these united efforts. 

"Please stay safe everyone."

Wairoa Civil Defence Controller Juanita Savage thanked everyone involved in the response, including Council staff, emergency services, partner agencies, contractors, volunteers, iwi, community groups, and members of our community.

"Your commitment, collaboration, and support have been instrumental in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our district throughout this event.

"Although the declaration has ended, recovery activities will continue, with Council and partner agencies working alongside affected communities to support clean-up, restoration of services, and longer-term recovery."

10 July 2026

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