Kia ora te whānau
We know that many of you are concerned about what has been happening with the Tasman and Nelson fires, and we thank everyone for their messages of aroha and support.
According to the latest update, weather conditions for the next few days remain benign with warm temperatures and light winds, ideal for fire fighters. However, the fire is not yet contained, and the situation could change very quickly.
There is still a total fire ban in place for the Nelson and Tasman regions, as well as restrictions throughout the region in relation to the use of machinery and certain farming operations. All our teams are aware of the restrictions and are complying with them.
Last week, as well as the fires in the Wakefield area, there were further two fires on Rabbit Island and in Nelson city on Walters Bluff , near Whakatū marae. These fires were quickly brought under control although they did cause disruption for our staff and for school children in the city on Friday afternoon. It is a timely reminder to have plans in place about how you will contact whānau in an emergency.
Both Whakatū and Te Āwhina marae are providing assistance to evacuees, police and fire crews. Wakatū Inc has offered support and will provide koha and people power as needed. We are working closely with the marae to see what the need is.
We are enormously grateful to all those who have been fighting the fires, and those teams of people who have been supporting them. We also send our thoughts to all those who have been evacuated from their homes.
For ongoing updates, the best place for accurate information is the Nelson Tasman Civil Defence website or their Facebook page.
Mauri ora
Kerensa Johnston
CEO, Wakatū Incorporation