River levels across the region drop

Horizons Regional Council will keep an eye on river levels overnight as they continue to drop across the region.

Horizons group manager river management Ramon Strong says staff will remain on site at Moutoa floodgates through the night. 

“At this stage we’re expecting to close the gates at some stage tomorrow so our staff will remain on site until then. Our duty officers will be keeping an eye on other areas, although we are not anticipating any significant issues.”

Mr Strong says river levels in most systems are receding although the Whanganui River is currently rising.

“As a result of additional rainfall today the Whanganui River is coming up. However, this is only expected to reach a peak of 4.1m at Pipriki tomorrow morning and is well below alert levels.

“There’s still a bit of rain forecasted for the region over the next day or so but again this is not expected to cause concern. Regardless we will continue to keep watch until we are confident there are no further issues.”

Members of the public are advised to take care while driving and check the AA’s website, for information on road conditions.

Up-to-date information on river heights and rainfall is available via Horizons 24 hour toll-free Waterline 0508 4 FLOOD or via our website

Updates will also be posted to the Manawatu-Wanganui Civil Defence Facebook page

For weather forecasting information please see www.metservice.co.nz