Bad weather yesterday caused extensive damage across the WEL network, resulting in 27 unplanned outages and affecting approximately 17,500 customers. Wel teams are working diligently to restore power swiftly and safely.
Due to significant damage across the network, outages are widespread, with the Raglan area being the most affected, leaving over 3,000 customers without power.
Key Updates:
- Generators for Vulnerable Customers: Overnight, generators were provided to vulnerable customers, including the Raglan Rest Home and Hospital.
- Asset Patrols: Helicopters and drones will assist with inspecting power poles, lines, and equipment in Raglan and Te Akau to quickly locate faults.
- Safety Reminder: Many outages are due to fallen trees bringing down power lines. Always treat power lines as live and report any downed lines immediately by calling 0800 800 935. For medically dependent individuals, follow your emergency backup plan and call 111 in emergencies.
Wastewater Concerns:
- The power cut in Raglan has caused untreated effluent overflows at several pump stations (Marine Parade, Nihinihi Avenue, East Street, and Kaitoke Street). Generators and pump trucks are in place, but more are being mobilised to manage the overflow.
- Public Assistance Needed: Limit water use, delay showers, and restrict water to essential use only.
- Shellfish Warning: Avoid collecting shellfish from Raglan Harbour until further notice due to potential contamination.
Current Status:
- Drinking water supply remains unaffected.
- The wastewater treatment plant is operating normally.
- Raglan4Square and Raglan Supervalue (cash only) are open, along with selected downtown shops powered by generators.
- Raglan Area School is closed today but will reopen tomorrow. Raglan Kindergarten is open.
- Te Uku, Te Mata and Waitetuna Schools are also closed today.
- Additional generators are being brought in to support the power restoration efforts with three more generators on their way to Raglan.
Wel Networks say they appreciate your patience and understanding as they work to repair the damage across the network. Stay safe.