Access between Opōtiki and Whakatāne was cut off by flooding and multiple road closures yesterday.

Both Wainui Road and State Highway 2 (Tāneatua to Kutarere via Waimana Gorge) were closed at the Opotiki News’ press time yesterday afternoon, and Opape residents were among over 300 around the region without power.

Wainui Road was underwater, with surface flooding exceeding 200mm.

Crews were onsite monitoring water levels and checking for underlying damage to the road.

As a result, there was no way to travel between Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki, which was expected to cause significant disruption for commuters, travellers, and anyone trying to return home after work, school, or appointments.

Whakatāne District Council activated its Emergency Operations Centre in response to the situation.

Council staff were working closely with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Flood Room, Ōpōtiki District Council, NZTA and emergency services to monitor river levels, assess road conditions, and understand how long these closures might remain in place.

At mid-afternoon, there was no confirmed timeframe for reopening either route.

“Conditions remain changeable, and river levels are still rising,” said local duty controller, Nicholas Woodley.

Residents and travellers either side of the road closures were being encouraged to make arrangements to stay with friends or family.

Within the Ōpōtiki district, there were also various slips. Takaputahi Road was temporarily closed and slips also had to be cleared on SH35, Brown Road, Veralls Road and Ōhiwa Loop Road.

Heavy rain on Tuesday and Wednesday also created temporary overflows within the wastewater network.

Loss of the sewerage service occurred in some areas and portaloos were set up at Rawinia Rangi Reserve and elsewhere.

At the height of the rain the council urged residents to limit water and wastewater usage including toilet flushing, showers and the use of washing machines and dishwashers.

The regional council reported that rivers stayed within normal parameters and pump stations operated as they should throughout the weather event.