Southland mayors announced last night the region’s state of emergency would be in place until next Friday morning. It had initially been due to end today.
Southland District Mayor Rob Scott said a lot of progress had been made following the extreme winds last week, which caused extensive power outages and downed trees.
"There is still a great deal more to do with areas yet to be assessed and the damage managed, with many parks, reserves and playgrounds closed until they can be declared safe.
"I urge everyone to keep away from closed areas and trees and powerlines."
In an update at 4pm yesterday, PowerNet chief executive Paul Blue said over 3000 customers — 2200 in Southland and 1470 in Otago — remained without power across the South.
The Southland Mayoral Relief Fund has been activated to provide vital support those affected.
The government has contributed $75,000, and the Ministry for Primary Industries has contributed $50,000 to be split between Southland and Clutha.
Southland controller Mark Radcliffe said while many locals had faced challenges, those who were able to contribute could make a real difference — such as donating to the relief fund.
All donations go directly towards helping those most affected — including assistance with emergency needs, essential household items and recovery costs.
Mr Blue said while the restoration of power was tracking well, the response was likely to have a long tail.
"We’ve largely reconnected our biggest areas of customers, but we have some very complex and widespread issues affecting many of those remaining.
"We will have a much better understanding by Friday of exactly how long those people can expect to wait for their power to be restored."
Supplier Cory’s had been doing an exceptional job making sure PowerNet got what was needed, via seven truck-and-trailer units, air freight and train.
"Cory’s, alongside our fantastic industry colleagues from Network Waitaki, Unison, Delta, Connetics, Central Power Installations, ElectroNet and Aurora Energy, have been amazing in providing materials, staff and equipment to support our restoration efforts."
Some material supplies had run low, and the latest shipments would keep progress moving.
