A massive downpour of biblical proportions hit Tolaga and Tokomaru Bays and Te Puia overnight.
Rivers burst their banks - washing out roads and bridges, spewing out piles of stones, trees and other muck.
Families have been forced to evacuate, homes are damaged, power is out, and there are numerous slips.
The group controller for Tairāwhiti Civil Defence Dave Wilson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
