MEDIA RELEASE

Waikato Regional Council’s flood team is monitoring the level of the region’s waterways closely as more rain due today and tomorrow will place extra strain on already swollen rivers and streams.

The Waihou River near Te Aroha, in particular, is currently the highest it has been for a number of years and with more rain on the way, it is predicted to continue to rise.

Thames Valley Civil Defence reports there is now a flood risk for some Te Aroha properties on the southern end of Rewi St, Honi St  Herries St, and the southern end of Whitaker St.

The regional council’s flood team is providing advice to the Thames valley authorities on what is happening with Waihou river levels as they manage the situation, said regional council flood response manager Adam Munro.

Elsewhere in the region, tributaries feeding the lower Waikato River are also particularly swollen and regional council staff are out working with landowners on any actions they need to take to protect their properties.

“We’re also checking the regional council’s flood protection stopbanks and pumps around the region to ensure they are all working smoothly,” said Mr Munro.

“We have also activated our flood response room in Hamilton to help co-ordinate any further  response that may be required as the situation develops.

“Luckily the forecast for the weekend is for much improved conditions and we are hopeful this spate of bad weather will pass without causing further issues.

“However, regional council staff and other agencies are ready to respond if required.”