A local state of emergency is in effect for the Wairoa District after "significant flooding" and rising river levels prompted dozens of people to be evacuated overnight.
In a post online, Mayor Craig Little declared a local state of emergency for the Wairoa District at 11pm last night.
He said some communities had become isolated following significant flooding across the district, with rising river levels affecting homes, businesses, farms, roads and essential services.
"We do have houses flooded and around 40-50 people were evacuated," Little said.
"A number of residents have already been evacuated from affected areas to ensure their safety," Little said.
The decision to begin evacuating residents took place after prolonged rain at around 9pm - two hours before high tide.
"We didn’t want to be starting work late at night," he said. "We could tell it might be serious so we began evacuating people."
Two evacuation centres were opened at Wairoa War Memorial Hall and Taihoa Marae.
Little told 1News the flooding wasn't as bad as last time but said the region was still on high alert due to the swollen rivers.
"Declaring a state of emergency allows emergency services and response agencies to work together quickly and effectively to protect people, coordinate resources, and support our communities as the situation continues to develop," he said.
In the hours since this declaration, the Wairoa District Council said the Taihoa Marae Civil Defence Evacuation Centre was now closed "with conditions improving and floodwaters beginning to recede in a number of areas".
"We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Taihoa Marae for opening its doors and providing a safe place for those who may have needed it during this weather event. Your generosity, manaakitanga and support for our community is greatly appreciated," the council said online.
The Wairoa War Memorial Hall would remain open as the district's evacuation centre should anyone still require assistance.
"Although conditions are improving, we encourage everyone to continue taking care, obey road closures, and avoid travelling through floodwater as crews continue to assess affected areas."
There was currently a heavy rain warning in place for the ranges of Hawke's Bay north of Napier until 10am today.
"Expect 60 to 90 mm of rain, on top of what has already fallen. Peak rates of 5 to 15 mm/h, easing around dawn on Frida," MetService said.
Heavy rain watch was in effect for Gisborne/Tairāwhiti south of Gisborne City until 10am today.
Wairoa has already been hit by severe weather earlier this year.
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