Floods Pre 1900
1868
Early July - Opotiki, (pg 43 of 'Their Greatness') Both rivers rose and the sea blew in. Father and Andrew blocked on the road for seven days as they were cut off at both ends, survived on potatoes and salt.
1873
September - Widespread flooding throughout the Bay of Plenty region, communications become cut as a result. (BOPCC, pg 18, 1970)
1875
December - Waioeka River rose 4.3m at Opotiki (BOPCC, pg 18, 1970)
1885
Biggest flood in living memory hits Whakatane district - according to Mr W. Francis who was a resident for 80years, McGarvey Road area and Apanui was swept by the river. Cattle and sheep from the Opouriao and Puapua estates littered the beach. (pg53 'Their Greatness')