Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg is advising residents across the district to take seriously the warnings and advisories currently being issued by emergency response agencies. 

Ms Grigg has spent the morning based at the Selwyn District Council’s emergency response centre. 

“Torrential rain overnight and extensive flooding across the district has triggered the Council’s emergency response centre to swing into action.

“With a further long period of heavy rain and ongoing flooding across the district evacuations are underway at the Selwyn huts with more likely in the foothills to the west of the electorate.

“This is no joke. Huge numbers of dedicated professionals and volunteers are working around the clock to keep our people safe and the last thing they need is extra work lumped on them because someone hadn’t listened to official advice.

“The message is clear, stay away from rivers and waterways and stay off the roads. 

“Public centres and facilities are currently being set up as bases for those being evacuated and Council will confirm those details in due course,” Ms Grigg says.

Another 150-200 ml of rain has fallen overnight and forecasters are expecting the same again over next 24 hours. 

“The Council is updating its website and Facebook pages regularly with the most current advice - residents should keep an eye on those or ring the contact centre with any concerns or enquiries.

“I’d like to extend my gratitude to the Controller and response teams for the work they’re doing to keep us all safe.”