Two regions, Otorohanga and Waipa, have been placed under states of emergency as wild weather hits the north island
Two regions, Otorohanga and Waipa, have been placed under states of emergency as wild weather hits the north island
15 February 2026
In Waipa the emergency was declared because of concerns about the Pirongia water supply because of slips and flooding.
A man died in Otorohanga after his car became submerged on State Highway 39.
80 people were also evacuated to Marae and churches.
Emergency Mangement Minister Mark Mitchell has been visiting Otorohanga and Tairawhiti.
He says he's been talking to local leaders about the what can be done financially.
Mitchell says he wants to understand what central government can do to help.
© 2026 Newstalk ZB, NZCity
