As Cyclone Gabrielle lashes much of the country, Hawke's Bay is one of the worst-impacted areas. Taradale, Omahu, Waiohiki, Jervoistown and Meeanee residents were asked to evacuate shortly before 11 o'clock, following urgent evacuations in Eskdale earlier in the morning. Communications to the region are internittent at best -- Napier mayor Kirsten Wise is with us now.