Flooding and slips across Christchurch
Heavy rain overnight has caused flooding in several areas of Christchurch, including by the Heathcote River and Oxford Tce. Many instances are being reported of cars being water logged especially when parked next to rivers, and people being stuck in their homes due to flooded driveways.
With the already saturated ground and flooding, Christchurch City Council Civil Defence and Emergency Management Manager, Brenden Winder, said it was likely there would be more surface flooding and slips in hillside areas.
“Strong easterly winds are forecast to accompany the rain, which may create issues with estuary and river levels, particularly around high tide on Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning.”
What you need to know:
- There are multiple road closures in the central city, including parts of Fitzgerald Ave and Cambridge Tce
- Some schools – including Christchurch Girls’ High, Hillmorton High, and St Thomas of Canterbury College – are asking students to work from home as flooding has made it difficult to access classrooms
- Council advises to clear leaves from sumps or drains on your property only if it is safe to do so
- If you come into contact with flood water, treat it as contaminated and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards
- Move cars, valuables and electrical items out of reach of potential flood water.
- In case of high winds, secure umbrellas, BBQs and outdoor furniture.
Council staff and contractors are ready to respond to issues and the council’s contact centre is open around-the-clock for residents who need help. To stay up to date with road closures and council updates, check the Christchurch City Council website.
Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
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71.6% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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18% Hmm, maybe?
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10.4% Yes!
Have you seen Rowena?
Police are urgently appealing for sightings of Rowena, 39, reported missing from Christchurch.
She was reported missing to Police on 22 October 2025, and was last seen on 14 August 2025. Rowena hasn’t been in contact with her children and her family are worried for her safety.
Police investigating her disappearance have identified her as being in Auckland, Tauranga and Christchurch in the recent months prior to her missing person report being made.
If you have seen Rowena, or have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact us immediately.
You can contact us via 105 either over the phone or online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” and referencing file number 251022/9026.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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