Taranaki remains in state of emergency as storm leaves thousands without powerSIMON O'CONNOR/STUFF The rare South African coral tree at the intersection of Ridge Lane and Rogan Street was damaged in the storm. Thousands of homes remain without power, drinking water must be boiled and a state of emergency remains in effect in New Plymouth after ex-cyclone Gita crossed the country. The state of emergency was due to be lifted for Stratford and South Taranaki at noon, Civil Defence said. New Plymouth District Council is asking people to use their emergency water supplies first. STATE OF EMERGENCYKelly said while there were still concerns for communities without power the region appeared not to have suffered any major damage from the storm.

Source: Stuff February 20, 2018 08:09 UTC