Help is at hand for residents of Napier, Hastings and Central Hawke's Bay, where thousands of people have been forced from their homes.

Power remains out and cellphopne coverage is patchy.

Water is safe to drink, but people should conserve it if they can.

State Highway 51 between Napier and Hastings has reopened overnight to allow food and fuel to get in, but people are being asked to avoid non-essential travel.

Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise told Kate Hawkesby anyone with concerns about friends or family they're unable to reach should call 1-0-5.

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