Specialist scientific team investigating Hipaua thermal site

Specialist scientists from the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS) are today flying into assess the Hipaua Thermal area above Waihi Village on Lake Taupo to assess the possibility of a landslip after recent earthquakes and rain.

The specialist team of scientists from GNS, nicknamed the “flying squad”, will gain access to high ground using a helicopter. A second team from Opus will walk in to assess lower areas.

The Civil Defence controller for the operation, Shamus Howard, said three key indicators would be used to make calls on the predicted safety of the area: visual clues, including cracks and any other movements in the area, predicted rainfall in the area, and renewed seismic activity.

It was hoped to have an initial assessment from the scientists this afternoon.

The assessment comes after villagers voluntarily self-evacuated on Monday afternoon after receiving warning from Civil Defence of an increase in the likelihood of a landslip. Locals are currently staying with friends and whanau in Turangi.

A state of emergency was declared on Monday, meaning the village will be closed until at least midday Friday. State Highway 41 remains closed between Tokaanu and Poukawa. Boats are excluded from Lake Taupo in an area within 600 metres of Waihi Village.

Civil Defence is moving to establish a welfare centre in Turangi at a local marae and backpackers to accommodate the Waihi village residents as required. “Such a set up will allow them to stay close together in the event that the village remains off limits for an extended period.

“We are working to get people back home as soon as we can but we need to be confident that this is a safe step before giving them the green light to return,” said Mr Howard.

Taupo District councillor Doreen Blyth, chair of the council’s emergency management committee, said the safety of residents was paramount.

“We will continue to work closely with local people and iwi to help meet all their needs and requirements.”