Peninsula Now Isolated

The Coromandel Peninsula is isolated.

Thames Coast Road closed mid-morning due to flooding at Manaia. The south eastern access was closed around 11am, again, flooding being the cause this time between Whangamata and Whiritoa.

This all occurred more than three hours before the high tide. With 2m tides at present, all other low lying levels around SH25 were at risk of flooding.

Todays road closures followed the disaster yesterday when it was revealed SH25A was closed indefinitely due to a major drop out. Earlier, with the first signs of the slip, Waka Kotahi reduced the highway to one lane, with travel only permitted during daylight hours. This while seismic tests were conducted. Yesterday as images appeared of the slip, it was clear major repairs would be required.

Also closed were the Tapu Coroglen and 309 Roads. Council took this decision being aware that the two roads, due to the current weather conditions, could not handle additional traffic. Port Charles Road is closed.

A civil defence centre has been established at the Whangamata Golf Club catering for people who had planned on leaving the peninsula.

Thames Coromandel’s Civil Defence Controller said while he had considering declaring a State of Emergency no fewer than six times, he was happy with the resources available.

Garry Towler said he met with Fire and Emergency NZ who were providing additional resources.

States of Emergency have already been implemented in both Auckland and the Waitomo district in making the declaration.

Garry said that the region was now in unchartered waters when it came to handling the high level of rainfall and subsequent impacts. He urged people to stay home and stay safe.

Other storm impacts, at Coromandel residents are being asked to conserve water, as are residents of Paeroa and Waihi. People are being requested no to swim or take shellfish from the Whangamata estuary.

Refuse Transfers Stations at both Tairua and Whangamata are closed.

The Metservice has extended the heavy rain warning until 6.00pm today.

We have a full interview with Garry Towler – click the link below for the latest update.