Update 2 - Snow Related Power Outages - Wakatipu Basin: 17 September 2018, 13:30:00

Heavy wet snow, fallen trees and snow-loaded branches on lines are causing damage to overhead power lines.

Power remains out for some customers in parts of Queenstown, Frankton, Arrowtown, Dalefield and Glenorchy.

Power has been restored to nearly 900 customers so far. Power will be restored to remaining customers as quickly as is safely possible.

The safety of the public and response crews is of foremost importance.

Extreme conditions are hampering our response. Crews will need to inspect several kilometres of powerlines to identify and rectify faults and some areas are currently inaccessible or unsafe for response crews to reach.

Keep safe

We understand the inconvenience that service interruptions cause and we will be working hard to restore power to affected customers as soon as is safely possible. The safety of the public and line crews is of primary importance at all times.

People should be prepared for the possibility of electricity-related hazards and unplanned power outages, in particular:

• 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
• If a power outage occurs, switch appliances off at the wall to avoid possible damage to electrical appliances when power is restored Be prepared for power outages
• Make sure you have adequate food supplies, warm clothing and bedding, torch and spare batteries, battery radio and an alternative source of heating and cooking

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.

ENDS