Following heavy downfalls over the long weekend, some parts of the Waikato River paths have been closed due to surface flooding.
Hamilton City Council says the closures will remain in place with the river expected to remain at higher levels over the next week.
Since the adverse weather began, Council has monitored the situation and is working with Waikato Regional Council which manages river levels with Mercury Energy.
Hamilton Civil Defence Controller, Kelvin Powell said he was confident that roads and housing in low-lying areas were currently safe from surface flooding.
“Please do take extra care along our river paths where they remain open,” he said.
“We ask people not to play near the river or swim in it. Waikato River poses many hidden dangers including steep drop-offs, strong currents and hidden objects like tree branches. These dangers increase following bad weather.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Paula Southgate has thanked those who worked tirelessly over the weekend to ensure the city stays as safe as possible during the extreme weather events.
“Thank you to our amazing emergency services, Council staff, and others such as building inspectors, who travelled up to Auckland to assist with assessing flood-stricken areas over the last few days,” she said.
“I want to encourage everyone in the community to continue to stay safe, check on your neighbours and loved ones, and always be cautious around any flooded areas.”
