News

Our staff have been working hard to ensure the people we support are safe amid the flooding.

We have been in contact with everyone and some people have already moved to a safer spot. The rain is expected to ease later today, but with the rain that’s fallen in the mountains still to make its way down the rivers – we need to remain alert for a while longer.

In Ashburton, many of the people we support have relocated to the Tinwald Holiday Camp and we understand it’s a great facility and there’s some fun being had there.

We are supporting others in Ashburton where they are and are keeping in touch with everyone and watching closely.

We are also keeping a close eye throughout Canterbury and Otago (including in North Canterbury, Oamaru and Timaru) and talking to families and individuals where there are concerns.

Some things to keep in mind

• People are being asked to boil water in several places – if in doubt please boil your water. We are currently talking to people in supported living about what that means and making sure they are prepared.
• Flood water may be contaminated with sewage. If you do come into contact with flood waters, change out of any wet clothes and shoes and put them aside to be washed later. Wash skin that has come into contact with flood waters and wash your hands as soon as you reasonably can - or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

We’re not in the clear yet but I am hopeful the worst is over.

Joan Cowan
Chief Operating Officer Services