Ben Green: Tairāwhiti Civil Defence controller says they can now get into the region from Ōpōtiki

Gisborne may soon get a lifeline, as it continues to navigate patchy internet and phone connections and flooded out highways.

The region hasn't had local Wi-Fi for three days and is prioritising connecting people within the community and to the outside world.

The Defence Force has come in to assist, and the Prime Minister will visit Tairawhiti today to assess the damage.

Local Civil Defence controller Ben Green told Kerre Woodham on Newstalk ZB they can now get into the region from Ōpōtiki.

He says it's a major advance that will relieve the pressure and build more capability.

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