Prepare before the weather changes
Keep a torch, spare batteries and a charged phone or power bank where you can find them. Make a plan for anyone in your household who depends on electricity for essential equipment, and follow advice from their provider.
Save the contact details for your electricity network and a local electrician. A widespread supply outage and damage within your own property may need different responses.
Keep clear of damaged equipment
Treat fallen or damaged power lines as live. Stay away, keep others clear and contact the network operator. Do not approach a cable to determine whether it is safe.
Water-affected electrical fittings and appliances need professional checking before use. Do not enter water or handle wet equipment to reach a switch. If you cannot safely access an isolation point, keep clear and ask for help.
Take care during an outage
Use torches for lighting. Never bring a barbecue or generator indoors. Do not connect a generator directly to household wiring yourself; discuss a properly designed arrangement with a licensed electrician.
Follow the network operator’s outage updates and the instructions for your appliances. Avoid guessing why a protective device has tripped or repeatedly resetting it.
After power is restored
If you notice damaged fittings, burning smells, repeated tripping or equipment that behaves abnormally, stop using the affected installation and call for advice. Electrical equipment that has been wet should be checked before it is returned to service.
WorkSafe provides guidance on electricity after a natural event. Use that alongside current local emergency advice.
Know which number comes first
For smoke, fire or immediate danger, move to safety and call 111. For urgent electrical assistance in the Wairarapa, call Amped Up on 021 0229 9887 and explain what is happening.
Our emergency page keeps the key contact information and practical next steps together. Online enquiry forms should not be relied on for urgent response.
Advice for your own property?
We’re here to help turn a general question into a practical next step.
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