This article first appeared on RNZ and is republished with permission.
Timaru District Council has sent out an emergency alert to residents in the Coopers Creek catchment north of the Orari River, telling them to evacuate immediately due to flooding.
Those in low-lying areas are being told to leave immediately, and go to higher grounds.
Motorists are advised not to drive through flood waters, due to possible debris and road hole and potential contamination.
Evacuees can go to friends or family or to the Temuka Civil Defence Centre - Alpine Energy Stadium situated in the Temuka Domain or the Geraldine Civil Defence Centre situated at Geraldine High School.
Officials have been meeting this morning in response to the flooding disaster that has hit Canterbury since the weekend due to heavy rainfall.
People were earlier being told to evacuate immediately from an area of the Waimakariri district because a flood gate was stuck open and there may be flooding.
Those in the low lying areas of Pines Beach, particularly around Dunns Ave were told to leave their homes now.
Residents on the higher sections of The Pines Beach could stay if they wish, but could be isolated for some time if Beach Road floods.
Emergency services will be assisting with the evacuation.
Of the households already evacuated, 243 are in Waimakariri.
Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon told Morning Report the Ashley and Kairaki rivers were still causing concern and residents should remain on alert.
Gordon said anyone who did not have to go out should not.
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