Update 7 - Storm Update Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago, as at 21:00h

In the past 24 hrs crews have worked hard to identify and repair damage largely caused by trees falling on power lines. A total of 16 customers will not have power restored tonight - 12 customers in Ettrick, as the inaccessible terrain is making it difficult to repair damaged poles, and four customers in a remote part of Makarora.

We’d like to thank those customers who were without power for their patience. If anyone is still without power or has part power please call Aurora Energy on 0800 22 00 05 and we will follow up.

Aurora Energy would like to acknowledge and thank all our contractors for their outstanding efforts in difficult conditions to clear trees and repair damage, often in inaccessible areas.

Keep safe:

• Always keep well clear of fallen power lines or damaged electrical equipment and treat them as live at all times
• Watch out for falling tree branches as these can cause damage to power lines
• Avoid possible damage to electrical appliances when power is restored by switching off appliances at the wall
• People using medical equipment that relies on electricity should ensure they are prepared for power disruptions and if there is an immediate health threat, contact their health provider or call 111

To report downed lines, or trees in power lines, please contact Aurora Energy on 0800 22 00 05.

To report a loss of power, please contact your electricity retailer.

ENDS