Valuable lessons apparent as Lake Ohau cordon lifted

THE cordon around Lake Ohau Village has been officially lifted just over a month and ahalf after the blaze that damaged or destroyed 48 properties.

It was the most homes destroyed by one fire in the country’s history.

Waitaki District Council staff have stood down the cordon, six weeks after taking over from Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

The village road was closed to all but essential workers and residents by appointment as contractors started demolition, services were reconnected and debris was cleared.

One member of the cordon staff said people could learn from the fire and how the community took care of each other.

‘‘How important it is to know, respect and look out for your neighbours. This community has taught us so much about supporting each other, having respect for your fellows and the environment, and taking pride in where you live. We learnt that we need to be grateful. And kind to one another.’’

Recovery manager Lichelle Guyan said the village was nearly cleared and ready for rebuilding and renewal.

‘‘The fire had taught a valuable lesson ‘Be prepared’. Those annual evacuation drills saved so much. We need to stop and think about our preparedness as individuals, neighbourhoods, communities.’’