Christchurch City Council has issued an urgent warning as the city faces widespread flooding, with stormwater basins nearing capacity and high tide threatening further impacts in low-lying areas.
A Local State of Emergency was declared for Christchurch and Banks Peninsula at 4pm on Wednesday by Mayor Phil Mauger, who said the move would allow the council to respond more effectively to flooding, slips and falling trees—particularly in Banks Peninsula.
“We need to make sure we’re able to keep people safe by putting all of our resources into responding to any problems that arise and one of the best ways we can do this is by declaring a Local State of Emergency,” Mauger said.
“The decision to include Christchurch was made as a precautionary measure. High tide is expected at 7.41pm, so declaring means we would have access to powers under the State of Emergency if they’re required.”
The council confirmed multiple road closures across the city, including Dyers Pass Road from the Sign of the Takahe to Governors Bay due to a slip. Several other roads across South Christchurch remain closed, including:
- Cashmere Road to Hendersons Road to Sutherlands Road
- Hendersons Road from Sparks Road to Cashmere Road
- Ernlea Terrace at Colombo Street
- Hunter Terrace
- Riverlaw Terrace
- Clarendon Terrace
- Richardson Terrace
- Eastern Terrace (Bowenvale Avenue to Birdwood Avenue)
- Palatine Terrace (Burnbrae Street to Buxton Terrace)
- Ford Road
- Summit Road (Sign of the Kiwi to Gebbies Pass Road)
- Garlands Road to Aynsley Terrace
- Aynsley Terrace to Centaurus Road
- Cashmere Road to Leistrella Road
- Provincial Road to Kennedys Bush Road
- Waimea Terrace
- Birdwood Avenue to Riverview Street
A Christchurch City Council spokesperson said the city’s stormwater network was under significant pressure.
“Our stormwater basins have been operating well but are now at or near full capacity,” the spokesperson said. “Overflow is occurring and may increase flood levels around the upper Heathcote River. Some properties may already be affected.”
“With high tide expected around 7.40pm, areas in the lower Heathcote may also see impacts. We’re actively monitoring water levels and will do our best to limit any impacts on residents overnight.”
The council is urging residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
“If you must drive, do so slowly and carefully to avoid pushing ponded water onto people’s property. Do not drive through flooded areas—you don’t know what’s under the water, and there could be serious damage.”
“Take care in hilly areas, as there is a risk of slips and fallen trees.”
Anyone who cannot return home or stay with friends or family is encouraged to contact the Council’s Contact Centre on 03 941 8999 or 0800 200 169 for assistance.
