The Government has declared a state of local emergency for the Canterbury Region, to assist in the response to the current severe weather.
Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery, Mark Mitchell, signed the declaration at 03:24pm yesterday.
“I have made this declaration as the Canterbury Mayors have not yet been able to be sworn in following the recent local elections,” Mr Mitchell said.
“The National Emergency Management Agency have been in close contact with the Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group and confirmed that a declaration is necessary.
“The state of local emergency will ensure local Civil Defence have access to the emergency powers they need to respond and support emergency services during this event.”
“This is a significant weather event that is causing impacts around many parts of the country. My thoughts are with everyone that has been affected.
“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.
“Stay up to date with the latest weather information from MetService. For advice on how to prepare for dangerous winds and severe weather visit getready.govt.nz.”
Minister Mitchell travelled to Canterbury overnight to support local government and first responders during the emergency.
