Westland District Mayor Helen Lash has declared a local state of emergency for the Southern ward of Westland District

The declaration comes as extensive flooding causes significant problems across the district, including evacuations, road closures and landslips in the South Westland area.

This declaration provides for Controllers to direct and coordinate personnel, material and other resources made available and provides access to extraordinary powers to deliver an effective and timely response to an emergency.

Members of the public are reminded to prepare getaway bags in preparation for potential evacuations.
If anyone is feeling unsafe, please self-evacuate to friends or family on higher ground or call 111.