10 December 2019

Media: Rotorua Daily Post

Topic: Rotorua assistance in response to White Island eruption

Enquiry

We understand there was a meeting this morning to create a plan on how the region will assist the situation on White Island.

Are we able to get another comment from Steve Chadwick in regard to what came from this meeting? Is there a clear plan in place at this stage?

Response

Reporter was informed the meeting was an operational meeting held by the NZ Police and the National Emergency Management Agency (formerly Ministry Civil Defence and Emergency Management) and there were no representatives from Council in attendance. Reporter was advised to approach those agencies for more information about the meeting as they are the lead agencies and was told further detail could be seen HERE

Reporter was informed Council Civil Defence resources are monitoring the situation and continue to be on standby in case we are needed.

From Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick:

We understand that the response is now focussed on a recovery operation and seeing to the welfare of those affected by yesterday's tragic event. I have reached out to our neighbours to let them know they have our support and that we are here and ready to assist where needed.