Decisive action's being urged, to avoid another event like June's flooding in Wairoa

An independent rapid review of the devastation in northern Hawke's Bay -- has identified several shortcomings.

It found several factors causing Wairoa River to back up and overflow -- included weaknesses around planning and management of the river mouth and bar.

The report's recommendations include central government clarifying the legislative framework around flood management, and Hawke's Bay Regional Council developing an operational management plan for the river.