State of Emergency remains in place as Waitaki monitors further heavy

Published on 08 July 2026

Community collecting sandbags

State of Emergency remains in place as Waitaki monitors further heavy rain

Update 8.30am Wednesday 8 July

The Local State of Emergency for the Waitaki District remains in place and will be reviewed later this afternoon as authorities continue to monitor weather conditions and the potential impacts of further rainfall.

The Waitaki Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) remains active, with Council staff, emergency services and partner agencies closely monitoring conditions and ready to respond if required.

A MetService Heavy Rain Watch remains in place for the coastal areas of the Waitaki District until 3pm Wednesday. While current forecasts indicate rainfall is unlikely to reach the levels experienced on Monday morning, many parts of the district remain saturated following recent heavy rain. The bulk of the rain is expected to hit between 10am and 1pm today.

Mayor Mel Tavendale said the district was taking a cautious approach.

"Although we're not expecting rainfall of the same intensity as Monday's event, the ground is already saturated and it won't take much additional rain to create further issues. We're continuing to monitor conditions closely and are prepared to respond if needed. Our message to the community is stay informed, and take sensible precautions where you can.”

Council crews and contractors have spent yesterday assessing damage, clearing debris and restoring access across the district. Work is continuing today to assess infrastructure, reopen roads where it is safe to do so and respond to issues as they arise.

Water Notices

Water and wastewater infrastructure continues to be an area of concern. Wastewater and stormwater systems remain under pressure in some areas, including sewer surcharging (exceeding capacity) and pump station capacity.

Due to increased turbidity in water supplies:

  • A Boil Water and Conserve Water Notice remains in place for the Lower Waitaki Water Supply.
  • A Conserve Water Notice remains in place for the Awamoko Water Supply (this supply is managed by Corriedale Water Management).

Residents are asked to continue using water carefully and follow all public health advice.

Thank you

Council also acknowledges the community response to yesterday's preparations, with more than 9 tonnes of sand and over 300 sandbags dropped off in Oamaru and Palmerston. More sand will be dropped off in Oamaru today.

Mayor Tavendale thanked local contractors SouthRoads and Skevington's for their support in making sand and sandbags available to the community.

"I'd also like to thank everyone who has been preparing their properties, checking on neighbours and looking out for one another. Community preparedness plays an important role alongside the work of emergency services and Council."

Public Advice

Residents are reminded:

  • If your home is flooding, you are trapped, or your safety is at immediate risk, call 111.
  • Report flooding damage, blocked drains, fallen trees and other issues through the Antenno app, the Waitaki District Council website or by calling 03 433 0300.
  • Know what water supply you're on and stay up to date with Water Notices
  • Talk with your insurance company about damages claims, including cost of cleanup.
  • Continue to monitor updates from MetService, emergency services and the Waitaki District Council Facebook page.
  • Check in on friends, family and neighbours if it is safe to do so.

Emergency services remain fully operational and are prepared for any impacts from today's weather. Regional resources, including a specialist water rescue team, remain available if required.

Pictured: Residents collecting sandbag

Media enquiries:
Public Information Management
Phone: 027 213 0987

ENDS

 

 

 

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