Most people in Gisborne and the East Coast are still without power, following serious damage to the 110kV line which supplies the area from Tuai to Gisborne.
“A light aircraft struck a large section of the lines, causing serious damage to both circuits,” said Brent Stweart, general manager Eastland Network.
“Our crew is in the area to inspect the damage. From our preliminary inspection we believe the towers are undamaged, but that there are conductor repairs and replacements required. We are working to get specialist crews and equipment to the remote area to enact repairs as urgently as possible.”
Mr Stewart warned residents they may be without power until late tomorrow afternoon.
“Prepare yourselves to be without power for up to 16 hours. Our vulnerable customers need to enact their emergency plans, and all other customers should conserve power and water, as well as listen to their radios for further updates.”
Mr Stewart said 5000 homes and businesses in Wairoa are unaffected by the power outage.