Wairarapa Civil Defence expects to find more damage as access to cut-off areas increases

Wairarapa Civil Defence expects to find more damage as it gains further access to areas around the south coast in the storm-hit region.

The Tūranganui River bridge was washed out in last week's storm, cutting off about 500 homes in Ngāwi, Lake Ferry, Whāngaimoana and Cape Palliser.

Emergency Operations Centre controller Matt Vins said the south coast settlements had no electricity and welfare teams were in regular contact with these isolated communities.

"We encourage community members to check in over the phone or online with whānau and friends in these areas. However, please do not attempt to travel to or access these locations. While we understand there is interest in the damage, visiting affected sites puts individuals and others at risk," he said.

While many roads were reopening in some capacity, there were still local closures in place, Vins said.

"Roading teams are continuing to work across the district to address slips and road damage and to reinstate access."

All three routes into Martinborough were now open, with the Ponatahi Bridge operating under a temporary 10 km/h speed restriction for vehicles crossing.

Work on the Turanganui bridge was underway and likely to take a few more days.

Locals are calling on the regional council to make sure the bridge is secure in the future. RNZ has contacted the council for comment.