WEL Networks says it is using helicopters and drones to locate lines, trees and pole faults quickly in the Raglan and Te Akau areas today. After power went out at about 2.30pm on May 29th, WEL says that they have been working to get power back on. As of mid morning on Thursday 30th, their outages website shows over 3,000 people without power in Raglan and surrounding areas. No restoration time is given. There appear to be multiple faults that have to be fixed including one right in Raglan at the corner of Government Road and Wallis St.
While Raglan Area School has closed for the day, some Raglan CBD businesses are open running on generators. When the power went off, the first business back on was Raglan Four Square where a giant generator roared into action and staff got the check outs rebooted and working. Over at the SuperValue they decided to give away free bread, bananas and bags of salad.
WEL Update – Thursday 9.07am
Our teams have a busy day ahead and they are doing their best to restore power as quickly and as safely possible.
Due to the extensive damage sustained across our network, outages remain widespread. The most extensive outage remains in the Raglan area with over 3,000 customers without power.
Generators have been provided overnight to our most vulnerable customers including the Raglan Rest Home and Hospital.
Helicopters and drones will be used to assist with asset patrols (power poles, lines, equipment) in the Raglan and Te Akau areas today. The purpose of this is to locate faults quickly.
For those who remain without power, we understand that this is frustrating for you and we thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to repair damage across the network.
A lot of outages have been caused by fallen trees that brought down powerlines. Treat powerlines as live at all times. If you see a downed powerline stay well clear and call us immediately on 0800 800 935.
If you are medically dependent on power, please follow your emergency backup plan and call 111 in an emergency.
Take care and stay safe everyone.
WEL NETWORKS