When Cyclone Gabrielle hit the North Island earlier this year, the strong winds and widespread flooding caused major disruption to the roading networks and core services throughout the Hawkes Bay, Auckland and Northland regions. In many regions key transport routes were completely cut off, isolating communities and hindering access to vital services. This created immense challenges for emergency response teams, as well as for residents attempting to evacuate or seek assistance. The disruption to the roading network also had significant economic consequences, impacting transportation of goods and services, and causing delays in supply chains.
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