As of 10:30 a.m. this morning, supply was restored to the majority of the network - approximately 17,000 customers.

Of the 7,600 customers remaining without power, 4,300 are awaiting the restoration of the Transpower 110kV which is not anticipated until later this afternoon.

There is still significant damage to be repaired before some customers will be restored - 80 fault sites are logged across the region.

Horizon Energy Group recommends that those still without power at 5 p.m. tonight, should make alternative arrangements as they may be without power for 2 to 3 days.