The state of local emergency has been terminated for most parts of the Canterbury region.

Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery Mark Mitchell confirmed the decision late this afternoon, saying the state of emergency for Waimakariri District, Christchurch City, Selwyn District, Ashburton District, Timaru District, Mackenzie District, Hurunui District, and Waimate District ended at 5.40pm.

“The Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Controller has advised that a state of emergency is no longer required for these districts,” Mitchell said.

However, he said the state of local emergency remains in place for Kaikoura District due to ongoing issues related to the recent fire.

“These include ongoing welfare needs of people impacted by the fire, as well as the risk of fires flaring up again over the coming days,” he said.

“Keeping the state of local emergency in place for Kaikoura will ensure local civil defence continue to have access to the emergency powers needed to respond to these ongoing issues.”

Mitchell said states of local emergency also remain in place for the Southland region and Clutha District.

“This weather event has impacted many parts of the country. My thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this event,” he said.

He urged people to follow the advice of local civil defence and emergency services.

“Listen to advice provided by your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group and emergency services and follow any instructions. Put safety first. Don’t take any chances,” he said.

Mitchell also warned of more bad weather early next week and encouraged people to stay up to date with the latest forecasts from MetService.