It's been 12 days since Auckland was first hit by a destructive deluge, but a potential Tropical Cyclone expected this weekend has authorities on high alert.
Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) provided an update on Wednesday as residents across the region grapple with the clean-up and devastation left by the floods.
What you need to know:
- 277 homes or buildings red-stickered.
- 1615 homes or buildings yellow-stickered.
- 2566 homes or buildings white-stickered.
- AEM is urging residents who feel their home needs assessing to call 0800 22 22 00.
- 20 roads across the Auckland region remain closed.
In a statement released by Auckland Council, it said MetService is forecasting a "settled run" of weather for the region this week, with the "odd passing/light shower" on Wednesday and Friday.
But authorities are closely watching a low over the Coral Sea, which is expected to develop into a Tropical Cyclone and could hit the northern part of the North Island from Sunday.
"We're asking the public to use this period of settled weather to clean up as much as possible and prepare for potential bad weather next week."
AEM deputy controller Rachel Kelleher pleaded with residents who are clearing out their flood-damaged belongings to stay safe while staff work to clear the damaged items.
"We really ask for you to keep away from their work area, we appreciate people want to help with that waste collection, but the most helpful thing you can do is check in on them, and potentially leave them to do the job they've been designated to do," Kelleher said.
Kelleher encouraged those clearing their damaged items to separate their electronic waste and whiteware from their general waste.
"Electronic waste can cause an elevated fire risk. Freezers and refrigerants and whiteware also have impacts to the environment."
On Tuesday Kelleher said those who aren't able to take their damaged items to the transfer station should leave them on the kerbside.
"It's really important, if you're doing that, that you make sure it is well contained and it's not going to sort of blow away or get into the stormwater network."
What to do before going to a transfer station
If you would like to take your waste to a transfer station near you, please phone Auckland Council on 0800 22 22 00 to confirm your visit.
You will need to provide your name, address, and vehicle registration to make the process easy at the gate and adhere to the facility rules, including wearing closed shoes.
Reports of council staff impersonators
Auckland Council issued a reminder of what council staff on the ground would be wearing and driving after it received reports of people impersonating compliance officers.
"Auckland Council officers will always be in uniform, will drive a council-branded vehicle and will carry a council ID card. Please always ask to see this ID before letting them into your home."
The council is encouraging those who are worried this has happened to them, or are approached by an impersonator, to call police on 105.
"If you have recently had a visit from a compliance officer and want to verify that they were from the council, you can email us at: rbacomms@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz."
Emergency accommodation
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will establish its temporary accommodation services for residents who have been displaced by the floods and are in need of longer-term support.
Auckland Council said displaced residents don't need to do anything, instead, MBIE will contact them.
But it added if residents need help finding temporary accommodation, they should visit the MBIE website to register with the temporary accommodation services.
