Civil Defence in Whakatane is today focusing on re-opening roads and restoring water and waste water systems.

Major highways remain closed and power is out this morning in Whakatane, Ohope, Coastlands, Otakiri, Taneatua, Ruatoki, Waimana, Matata, Thornton, Galatea, Murupara, Minginui, Ruatāhuna, Waiotahe and Opotiki through to Cape Runaway.

A statement from the Civil Defence eastern operations centre this morning says they are also working on returning more Edgecumbe people to their homes today. Details are expected to be announced later this morning.

Coastal inundation damage from cyclone Cook has been light. No houses have been impacted. People evacuated from all of Ohope – West End, and parts of Pohutukawa Avenue and Harbour Road can return to their homes, but they should be aware that their water supply has been impacted. Conserve water and don't flush notices apply.

The evacuation advisories for the Awatarariki area and campgrounds from Matatā west have also been lifted.

Power outages have affected much of the District. Water and wastewater systems have been seriously affected. Generators are being placed at key pump stations, but capacity is low. Conserve water and Don't Flush notices apply to all areas where power is out.

Te Teko has no water. Civil Defence is working to have a tanker supply available.

Parts of Ohope and the Hillcrest and Mokorua areas in Whakatāne have no water supply available.

Boil water notices still apply to the Rangitaiki Plains, Ruatoki, Te Mahoe and Taneatua

There's no information at this stage on when power will be restored.

There are multiple road closures due to slips and fallen trees, including SH2 at the Matata straights. These issues will be dealt with progressively.

Rainfall from the Clyclone Cook remnant was unexpectedly light – there were no problems with stormwater systems and river flows in the eastern Bay of Plenty.

SH2 is closed at Pikowai near Mimiha Rd due to power lines and a large tree down. Avoid unnecessary travel. Contractors don't expect to be able to reopen the road until after midday.

SH 34 Edgecumbe To Te Teko is closed because of power lines down. Traffic management is on site and a detour is in place.

SH2 Waiotahe Beach Rd between Ohiwa & Opotiki is expected to be re-opened by about 9am – 10am.

In the west SH29 remains closed by a major slip on the Waikato side.