Local people are urged to be prepared for the upcoming forecasted rain but please don’t panic.

Wairoa District Council Chief Executive Matt Lawson said based on the information Council is being provided, it is monitoring the weather situation and carefully watching for changes.

“We acknowledge there will be concerns based on the recent post-new year intense deluge which resulted in considerable surface flooding in areas of the main street and some residential areas.

“At this stage, there are no weather watches or warnings for the Wairoa district – but we know this can change and people should be prepared.

“This is a reminder to have your essentials ready, so if the weather situation becomes worse than currently forecasted you know how to keep yourself and your whānau safe.

“Council has asked its contractors to check public drains, grills and gutters to ensure there is no rubbish or blockages preventing the water from getting away. We have also been investigating why the rain water couldn’t get away in the main street during the recent rain event. There are a number of contributing factors from broken seals and tree root intrusions to blocked grills and gutters, stormwater incorrectly diverted and infiltration. We know there is more work to do, and it is important we focus on the basics and work towards Council’s infrastructure being fit for purpose and working in partnership with our community.

Follow the official updates:

MetService New Zealand: www.metservice.com/rural/regions/hawkes-bay/locations/wairoa

Local road conditions: https://www.wairoadc.govt.nz/services/roading

State Highway conditions: www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions

20 January 2026

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