Homes and holiday parks in New Zealand North Island's Bay of Plenty have been evacuated as heavy rain hit the area on Saturday.

The Fire Service said more than 40 people were evacuated from two holiday parks at Waihi Beach due to rising river levels and extensive flooding, and a number of residents left flooded homes, Radio New Zealand reported.

Fire crews used ropes to get holidaymakers across the flooded stream to safety.

Road access was cut when the Waihi Stream bridge was inundated.

The chief fire officer at Waihi Beach, Ian Smith, said it was the worst flooding for decades.

The Fire Service said the water started receding late on Saturday night and they had no more callouts since just after midnight.

Parts of State Highway 2 between Waihi and Waihi Beach were reopened but Waihi Beach Road remained closed on Sunday morning.

In Tauranga, heavy rain caused flooding to at least 50 homes mostly in Otumoetai and Matua, and some residents were forced to leave their properties.

The Fire Service said up to half a meter of water was dumped in a few hours.

Flash flooding in Mount Maunganui damaged many shops which remain closed on Sunday. Roofs have been damaged, carpets ruined, and some retailers have lost stock.

In the South Island, rain has brought down slips along State Highway 1 near Kaikoura and police are asking motorists to drive with care. Endi

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)