Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence is advising motorists to take care on roads around the region this morning.
The group says they have had reports of surface flooding in the region after overnight rain.
They ask people to keep off the roads if possible, and not to drive through floodwaters.
The advice for those who have to travel is to drive to the conditions and to expect delays and hazards.
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Grants from the Hawke’s Bay Regional Relief Fund will soon be available for those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.
One-off hardship grants of a maximum of $1000 will be available for households, and up to a maximum of $2000 for organisations, marae, and community groups.
Hawke’s Bays Mayors and Regional Council Chair activated the fund following the devastating cyclone, allowing people from all over the country to contribute.
Details on criteria for distributing funds will be made available in the coming days, with applications being taken on the HBRC website.
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The Central Hawke’s Bay District Council has closed its Civil Defence Centre at the Waipawa Municipal Theatre, but still has support available for those who were impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.
An Information and Support Hub is available at the Waipawa Library.
For those wanting to donate food, this can be done at the CHB Food Bank and at the Food Basket at the Community Rooms in Waipukurau.
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Federated Farmers has called on the Government to deploy the army to deter crime in rural areas of Coromandel, East Cape and Hawke's Bay.
After being in Hawke’s Bay over recent days, CEO Terry Copeland met plenty of people who were cleaning up flood damage, and many who had grave fears for the safety of themselves and property.
He said the criminal element is operating and intimidating in isolated rural and farming areas, and a perception is not enough is being done to rein them in.
Copeland said Police are doing an awesome and much appreciated job, “but the army would increase the reach of State authority and support to rural areas”.
