Banks Peninsula MP Vanessa Weenink says the area is facing a major clean-up following widespread flooding, slips, and road closures.

Speaking on Thursday morning, Weenink said the rain had eased overnight, but many roads remained shut due to floodwaters, debris, and damage.

“Contractors and emergency services are out this morning assessing roads to make sure they’re safe to be reopened. There’ll be a bit of debris and damage—and I’m sure there are some new potholes,” she said.

Emergency services responded to a landslip risk on Lighthouse Road near Akaroa on Wednesday evening, where three homes were evacuated as a precaution.

“There was a potential for a slip and a crack in the road, above the Caldera Estate Vineyard. A geotechnical assessment will now determine whether it’s safe,” she said.

Weenink also confirmed a slip in Lyttelton and said waterlogged ground across the peninsula has made conditions unstable.

“One farmer is reportedly dealing with around 100 slips just on a single property,” she said.

She urged residents to stay home unless travel is essential.

“My main message to the good people of Banks Peninsula is: take care and only travel if you really need to.”

Weenink thanked emergency responders and volunteers for their efforts during the weather event.

“I just want to say thank you so much to all the volunteer firefighters, emergency services, and to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter crew who flew into Akaroa in really tough conditions. Thank you for your bravery and for looking after people.”

She also praised the Little River Volunteer Fire Brigade for their work during what she described as a very tough day.

“They certainly had their work cut out for them. You might have seen some of the footage—the Little River really turned into a big river.”

Weenink said she was thinking of everyone affected, especially in places like Little River, and hoped residents were coping.

“The good news is, the worst of the weather has now passed.”