News in brief
Be prepared
The Lines Company says recent severe weather has highlighted the importance of being prepared for power cuts. In addition to storms and flooding, the Tongariro National Park fire threatened TLC’s infrastructure. The company says people should keep a torch and spare batteries handy, use surge protectors, store water, ensure a BBQ or camping stove is in working order and develop a backup plan if power is needed for medical equipment
Hospital display
A section of the crowd at the Te Kuiti Hospital celebrations
A display on show during the 100-year-celebrations of Te Kūiti Hospital this month is back on display. Te Kuiti Museum and Historical Society has the visual display of the hospital’s early days on show.
Pothole fixed
Waka Kotahi repaired a large pothole on State Highway 3 on Sunday after it claimed tyres from three separate vehicles. Resident, and former Waitomo District Council rural ward candidate Ross O’Halloran, said he came to the aid of three sets of cave visitors who had a tyre blow out on the road. “Hopefully the tourists got to the caves in time,” O’Halloran said.
On the move
The bathroom and kitchen block from the Te Kūiti Holiday Park has been moved to the Marokopa Campground. The holiday park on Te Kumi Road was closed by Waitomo District Council because costs were exceeding revenue.
Centre update
Te Kūiti’s Maternity Resource Centre future should be announced early next year. Health NZ (Te Whatu Ora) said last month a review of the centre was expected to be completed by November. However, in response to further enquires, it said while there is now no timeline for completion, the review is “currently expected to conclude early next year”.
Traffic delays
Waka Kotahi says motorists should expect delays of up to 30 minutes as work continues to repair storm damage on Stage Highway 3 between Piopio and Tongapōrutu.
