Last of the trapped SH5 road-users rescued

MEDIA RELEASE

5 October – 0900hrs

Civil Defence in Taupo have confirmed that the last of those trapped in vehicles on the Taupo side of the Napier-Taupo highway (SH5) have been rescued and are at the welfare centre in Taupo.

The last bus load of cold and tired travellers is being registered at the welfare centre based at the Taupo Events Centre, before being moved on to local Marae.

Taupo District Council recognise the efforts of all volunteers involved, especially the Taupo 4WD Club, whom without access to the trapped vehicles would have been nearly impossible, and the Rangitaiki Tavern who accommodated those rescued before being bussed back to Taupo.

Hundreds of cars remain on the highway, but it is unconfirmed when the recovery effort will begin, as weather forecasts predict snow continuing in the area. Efforts now turn to accommodating and feeding the close to 300 people rescued from the trapped vehicles.

Taupo Mayor Rick Cooper, who drove one of the buses transporting passengers from the Rangitaiki Tavern to the Events Centre in Taupo, is currently visiting the welfare centres.  

Anyone who is trying to find someone that was on the road needs to call the Taupo District Council free 0800 number 0800 ASK TDC (0800 275 832). 

State Highway 5 between Napier and Taupo remains closed until further notice