The chairman of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board has praised the community who have helped others badly affected by the floods.

Gary Brown said, “the community has pulled together and many are doing all they can to help others. They have shown great strength and resilience.”

He thanked everyone who are busy with the recovery effort and for their patience as the council responds to hundreds of requests for services.

“While the damage is still being assessed in our community, we know that many families and businesses have suffered huge losses. Our hearts go out to them and to families who have lost loved ones.”

Gary said it has been a very difficult start to the year with severe storms that lashed the city. 

Emergency services, council staff and contractors have been very busy helping residents and businesses, who have been hit hard by floods and a record rainfall.

Several council facilities remain closed or have reduced services as a result of damage sustained to buildings or their surrounding area. 

The Te Haruhi campground at Shakespear Regional Park and Schischka campground at Wenderholm Regional Park will both remain closed until 8 February. 

Gary said the council is prioritising their work as they deal with the many slips that have occurred during the storms. 

If you need to report flooding, damage to drains or stormwater issues, go to the Auckland Council website. 

To report a slip, please call Auckland Council on 09 301 0101 and if you need urgent accommodation assistance, phone 0800 22 22 00.

He urges motorists to stay up-to-date with traffic updates on Auckland Transport or checking the Waka Kotahi website, Auckland Emergency Management posts information on Facebook, Twitter and on the Auckland Emergency Management website.

Gary said Hibiscus Coast resident must take care and stay safe.