Rivers monitored as water levels rise

Thursday, 8 March 2018

River levels are being monitored around the Manawatū-Whanganui region and officials say it's possible roads may be closed and flood barriers installed as water levels rise.

Horizons Regional Council emergency management staff are keeping an eye on Whanganui River levels, and rivers in Manawatū and Rangitīkei.

Horizons' river management group manager Ramon Strong said the Manawatū River was expected to peak at 4.2 metres at the teachers' college on Thursday, and its rising waters could result in a road closure at Opiki.

'At this stage, there is no further significant rainfall forecasted, so we don't expect any other issues.'

He said the rain early on Thursday could cause delays to works under way at Ashhurst Domain, but did not expect it to cause any significant damage to the site.

'The erosion works behind Victoria Esplanade have been secured and the contractors working on the He Ara Kotahi Bridge have implemented their flood contingency plan.'

Strong said rain in the upper Whanganui catchment overnight had seen river levels rise and predictions signalled flood barriers may be installed in Kowhai Park, Whanganui.

'At this stage, it is predicted to exceed 11 metres at Pipiriki at 8.45am and continue to rise. Once we get to this level we will confirm the need to install the Kowhai Park flood protection barriers in line with our flood management plan.'

The Whanganui River was expected to peak at 7.9m at the town bridge at 5pm on Thursday.

'If required, the flood barriers will be in place later this afternoon.'

MetService meteorologist Tui McInnes said there was still a 'watch' in place for heavy rain until 1pm, but it was already easing in Manawatū and Whanganui. 

He said there was likely to be some showers until Friday afternoon, but it would clear from there.