At 12:42pm on Wednesday 21 January, Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management (BOPCDEM) received support of the local Mayors to declare a state of local emergency.  

This was a precautionary approach to ensure Controllers and others with extraordinary powers can respond quickly and efficiently, to deliver actions that will help keep people safe during a response. This includes closing roads or public places, undertaking works, removing or securing dangerous structures and material, and providing first aid, food or shelter. 

You can still go about your daily business under a state of local emergency, but make sure you listen to and follow any instructions from civil defence and emergency services. 

We are sharing information across the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence channels (Facebook and website).  

Please refer to these channels for updates in the first instance. We also recommend checking the Facebook page and / or website of your local council, and NZTA.