Eight people are confirmed dead after Cyclone Gabrielle and authorities have "grave fears" for others, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins says. Properties in Eskdale, in Hawke's Bay, were heavily inundated after the nearby river broke its banks. Speaking to media earlier this afternoon, he said there was is no question Cyclone Gabrielle is a "major catastrophic event". Authorities say the death toll in Hawke’s Bay is likely to rise in the coming days. Carolyn and Brian Whittington are rescued by a USAR team from their property at Puketapu which was cut-off by Cyclone Gabrielle floodwaters.
