Residents in parts of Selwyn District are being urged to self-evacuate as river levels remain dangerously high, following the declaration of a local state of emergency.
Selwyn District Council said residents on Old Tai Tapu Road, south of number 157, should leave their homes voluntarily due to the high risk of flooding.
Response teams are in the area to assist.
The council also warned residents in low-lying areas including Tai Tapu, Selwyn Huts, Lincoln, Doyleston, Leeston, and Southbridge to keep a close eye on conditions and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
“Please take care if you are travelling on the roads and keep your eyes open for any debris, lying water, or other hazards that may be around,” a council spokesperson said.
While rain has begun to ease, widespread surface flooding remains, and infrastructure is under pressure. A pump hose is currently laid across the main street in Southbridge, and all streets in the Tewhariki Subdivision in Lincoln are affected by flooding. Residents there are advised to stay indoors and drive slowly if travel is unavoidable.
State Highway 1 at the Selwyn River remains open for now, with NZTA continuing to monitor the situation closely.
Emergency welfare centres have been opened at:
- Lakeside Soldiers Memorial Hall
- Doyleston Hall
- Lincoln Event Centre
Sand and bags are available in Lincoln, Glentunnel, Sheffield, and Leeston. Residents must bring their own spades.
Water conservation remains critical in Acheron, Arthur’s Pass, Dalethorpe and Hartleys, with those in Prebbleton and Lincoln asked to reduce water use due to pressure on the wastewater network.
To report any issues, call Selwyn District Council on 0800 SELWYN (735 996). For flooding emergencies, dial 111.
