Weather Update & Preparedness Notice
Kia ora koutou,
A weather system is moving across the upper North Island this week, with heavy rain and strong wind watches in place, and a heavy rain warning (Orange) for parts of the Bay of Plenty.
While this is a weather pattern we do see from time to time, there is potential for impacts in some areas, so it’s a good time to stay informed and be prepared.
Current Watches and Warnings by Kāinga
Pakikaikutu (Northland)
Heavy Rain Watch
Strong Wind Watch
Period: Tuesday through to early Wednesday
Expect periods of heavy rain, with localised downpours and possible thunderstorms
Potential for conditions to upgrade to a warning
Manaia (Hauraki / Coromandel Peninsula)
Heavy Rain Watch
Period: Tuesday afternoon through to Wednesday
Periods of heavy rain, with possible localised downpours and thunderstorms
Moderate chance of upgrade to a warning
Tauranga / Maketū (Bay of Plenty, west of Whakatāne including Rotorua)
Heavy Rain Warning – Orange
Period: Midnight Tuesday through to midnight Wednesday
Forecast rainfall: 100–140mm, with intense bursts possible
Impacts may include:
Rapidly rising streams and rivers
Surface flooding
Slips
Difficult driving conditions
What This Means
Heavy rain and strong winds can:
Cause localised flooding and slips
Bring down trees or debris
Make travel conditions unsafe
Civil Defence notes that storms can escalate quickly, so staying informed and ready to act is important.
How to Be Prepared (Civil Defence Guidance)
These are simple, practical steps aligned with national guidance.
Before and During the Storm
Stay up to date with forecasts and official advice
Secure or bring inside anything that could be picked up by wind (furniture, tools, trampolines)
Clear drains and gutters to reduce flooding risk
Bring pets into shelter and move stock if needed
Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain
At Home
Close windows and doors, and stay inside during severe weather
Have torches, batteries, food, and water available
Be prepared in case you need to stay home for a few days
If Flooding Occurs
Do not walk or drive through floodwater
Move to higher ground if water levels rise
Be ready to evacuate if needed and follow official advice
Look Out for Each Other
Check in on whānau, especially kaumātua
Offer support where needed
Share updates with those who may not see them
Stay Informed
Continue to monitor updates from:
MetService
Civil Defence
Your local council
Conditions can change quickly, and updates will reflect that.