28 Jan 2026

Storm damage cuts students off from schools

From Checkpoint, 5:08 pm on 28 January 2026

Storm damage along Tairawhiti's East Cape is dividing students and teachers, with some cut off from their schools. State Highway 35, a vital link around the coast, has been severely damaged in last week's extreme weather. Some parts are closed, while other sections have restricted access. Te Waha o Rerekohu Area School in Te Araroa, which is due to start on Monday, is one of the schools cut off. Principal Lynn Burrell spoke to Lisa Owen.