Tornado damage in tens of millions

A tornado which tore through North Shore yesterday left one dead, and four commercial properties, 23 residential properties, and 55 cars damaged in its wake.

The tornado, which struck just before 3pm, killed one man, injured 14 and caused damage valued at “tens of millions” of dollars, the Insurance Council said.

Roofs were ripped off houses and commercial buildings in the suburb's commercial centre, trees were uprooted and cars were turned on their sides.

“It's still a little early to put a precise figure on the amount of insured loss suffered as a result of the tornado but I'd expect it to be in the tens of millions given the severity of the event. Dramatic video footage tells us that the cost will be reasonably high once all claims are in," Council chief executive Chris Ryan said.

Mr Ryan said the expected influx of claims from the tornado would further stretch an insurance industry already reeling from paying out for flooding in the Hawke’s Bay and the Christchurch earthquake.

The North Shore Event centre Welfare Centre emergency welfare centre is now closed, but anyone requiring welfare assistance can still call 0800 463 010.

The Albany Mega Centre and Westfield mall are cordoned off this morning as surveyors check to see if buildings are safe so staff and shoppers can return.

Severely damaged cars were still dotted around the carpark where they were left in the wake of the twister.

Cordons remain in place around Westfield Mall and parts of the Albany Mega Centre. No decision has yet been made on when the mall will reopen.

Civil Defence controller Clive Manley said heavy machinery would be required to make the shops safe, so recommended people stay away.

He said building inspectors are continuing to assess the damage to commercial and residential properties.

North Harbour Stadium, which is right next to the Albany Mega Centre, has escaped unscathed.