A birdseye view of damage to the city's water pipe from the Waingake Water Treatment Plant to Gisborne city, taken directly after the cyclone hit the region. Photo: Supplied via LDR / Murry Cave
As Tairawhiti deals with the many aspects of cyclone recovery it's emerged that a Gisborne District Council owned forest at Waingake was a factor in cutting off the region's water supply. Forestry waste damaged the city's main pipeline.
Meanwhile, the city remains in a water crisis, industry is slowly being brought back on, and residents are still being asked to conserve water.
Matthew touches on some of the local stories which illustrate the depth and breath of Cyclone Gabrielle's ongoing impact, including Ben and Sarah Aperahama losing everything.
Water from the Waipaoa River flooded the house and section on the morning of 14 February. The Aperahama family have enlisted the help of contractors to clear the waste as they wait for further instructions from council and insurance. Photo: Rebecca Grunwell / Gisborne Herald
