4000 customers are still without power throughout Waimakariri and Hurunui due to high winds.

Mainpower says the number of customers without power has been reduced to around 4000 customers, with around 3000 customers restored so far.

“We are working to restore the majority of customers by tonight. Unfortunately some customers in areas that are difficult to access will likely have power off overnight.”

“Our crews continue to work safely and deliberately across the network, however are hampered by a large number of trees across roads and flying debris is still an issue.”

“Treat all lines as live during the outage period; power may be restored at any time. If you require further information please call MainPower’s 24-hour fault line – 0800 30 90 80; to report an emergency call 111.”

RIVERBED WARNING: Waimakariri Regional Park and Alpine Rivers

Environment Canterbury River Engineers have issued riverbed alerts for the Waimakariri, Rangitata, Rakaia, Hurunui, and Waiau Uwha rivers.

The warning is only for people in the riverbed, particularly recreational users or contractors.

Environment Canterbury does not expect any of these rivers to rise to significant flood levels, or for there to be any ‘out of river’ flood problems.

Photo below: Ranata Hobbs-Hoskins