Meridian Energy is advising that Lake Pūkaki is close to reaching its maximum level due to regular rain and melt from the snowpack, and some water will need to be released to make room for expected rainfall over the coming week.
From 7am on Wednesday 3 December there will be a controlled release from the Pūkaki Gate Structure into the Pūkaki River. The release of water will begin slowly and gradually build up to larger flows.
Flows will start at 35 cumecs and will be 70 cumecs once established, although gate testing between 13:00 and 15:30 on Wednesday may see flows of up to 240 cumecs for short periods.
People are asked not to enter the riverbed over this period under any circumstances and obey all warning signs. Currents will be unpredictable and river flows will be constantly changing for the duration of this event.
If people see anyone at immediate risk of harm, they should call 111 immediately.
Due to expected rainfall over the coming days an end date for this release has not yet been confirmed. Updates will be made via Meridian’s Facebook page and further media advisories.