Number of missing people after Cyclone Gabrielle down to 8, 24 arrests in 24 hours

The number of uncontactable people following Cyclone Gabrielle in the Eastern District is down to eight, police have confirmed. 

Police released a statement on Sunday morning saying the remaining eight people include those who, "for a variety of reasons", do not engage with authorities.

But police said getting in contact with them is a priority.

"Our staff are exploring all avenues to try and locate them," police said.

Looting update

Looting has been a major issue in the wake of the cyclone, particularly in the hard-hit Hawke's Bay region. Justice Minister Kiri Allan earlier this week called on thieves to "get your act together" and "cut it out". 

Police said in the 24 hours to 7pm on Saturday, 24 people have been arrested for a variety of offences - 14 in Hawke’s Bay and 10 in Tairawhiti.

The offences include burglary, car theft, serious assault and disorder.

Police also revealed they're investigating an incident where a patrol car was damaged in Wairoa at around 10:30pm on Saturday night.

Police responded to a report of a breach of the peace in Churchill Avenue, Wairoa and while they were investigating, a headlight on their patrol car was damaged.

Three people were arrested when they attempted to leave the address, and a firearm was seized, police said.

Over the same period, police received 453 calls for help, including five reports of burglaries and 48 family harm incidents. 

The number of confirmed deaths remains at 11.