Firefighters dealt with a heavy volume of weather-related incidents overnight, with 852 emergency 111 calls in the North Island between 6pm and 8am, Fire and Emergency says. Of those, 804 related to storm damage including fallen trees and powerlines, lifted roofs and other property damage.

Assistant National Commander Ken Cooper said more than half the calls came from the Wellington region as the system moved south, though every part of the North Island except Northland reported storm damage or flooding.

“We had a very busy night, and our firefighters are continuing to respond to calls,” Cooper said. “We appreciate the work they are doing to support their communities and we urge people to follow the advice from civil defence to prepare and keep themselves safe, wherever they may be.”

Across the night:

• 97 calls were categorised as urgent (threat to life or serious damage) — 75 of those in Wellington.
• 300 involved less serious property damage — 214 in Wellington.
• 407 were minor impacts — 266 in Wellington.

Fire and Emergency is asking people to keep clear of floodwater, watch for flying debris and stay off the roads where possible. If life or safety is threatened, call 111 immediately.

For those without power and relying on alternative heating, cooking or lighting, Fire and Emergency’s safety advice is:

• Switch off appliances, including stoves and heaters, that were on when the power went out.
• Use torches rather than candles. If candles are the only option, place them upright in a secure holder (such as a jar), well away from anything that can burn.
• Do not use outdoor heaters or cooking equipment indoors.