Truck knocks out power in Waimate

Power was cut to hundreds of properties in the Waimate area today after a waste disposal truck knocked into a power pole.

Alpine Energy Ltd chief executive Andrew Tombs said the truck crashed into the pole in Augustine St, Waimate causing the power flow to 460 properties to stop about midday.

Power was being restored throughout the day to customers; however, 180 customers were still without power this evening. It was hoped power would be restored to all homes by 7pm.

Mr Tombs said a computer programme at a substation detected the crash and shut down power delivery to urban and rural properties.

He said the pole was badly damaged and it was possible costs to replace it would be pursued.