Weather live updates: Whangārei and Far North under a State of Emergency with flooding across Northland
Which regions could be hit next as red rain warnings loom?
Pinned Scott Palmer
MetService says there’s a strong likelihood of several regions being upgraded to red heavy rain warnings as a damaging storm sweeps across the country.
Northland and Whangārei are currently in a state of emergency, which will last for seven days.
Although rainfall is set to ease for both regions, others may soon be in the flood firing line.
So which regions are preparing for the worst?
Evacuations underway in Kaitaia
Scott Palmer
Civil Defence Northland said emergency services in Kaitaia are helping with the evacuation of a small number of residents.
Far North District councillor Hilda Halkyard-Harawira said about 50 households are being evacuated after the Awanui River breached a stopbank.
Waimamaku Hall has been opened to accommodate about 40 displaced locals, she said.
Kaitaia College said its gym on Redan Rd was ready to receive evacuees.
"Come through if you need a safe, warm place — we are here for you."
A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said crews are assisting local Civil Defence and police with "multiple evacuations of Kaitāia residents whose homes are either flooded or threatened by flooding".
Updated list of severe weather warnings
Scott Palmer
MetService has issued an updated list of severe weather warnings and watches as a deep sub-tropical low moves across New Zealand over the next few days.
It warns that this continues to be an "impactful multi-hazard event", with heavy rain and strong northeast winds affecting many regions.
The heaviest rain and largest amounts are likely in the upper North Island, especially from Northland to western Bay of Plenty where downpours, flooding, and slips are possible tonight and Friday.
A period of large northeast waves is also expected with strong to gale-force winds. Heavy rain and strong winds will also affect parts of the South Island, especially for Tasman and the West Coast.
For a full list of affected regions, see MetService’s latest severe weather watches and warnings here.
Multiple people rescued from flooding
Scott Palmer
Multiple people were rescued from flooding in separate incidents in Northland today.
Fire and Emergency said it was alerted to people trapped in their cars in a flooded river on Kaitaia-Awaroa Rd, Herekino, just before 7pm tonight.
“Firefighters from Ahipara and Kaitaia responded. All persons were accounted for,” a Fire and Emergency spokesperson said.
In a separate incident earlier in the day, three people were rescued after being trapped in a car at Opuawhanga, Whangārei.
“Fire and Emergency was alerted to the three people trapped in a car in floodwaters just on midday.
“A specialist water response team was able to rescue the occupants of the car with the help of a private contractor.
“During this incident crews also rescued another woman trapped in her car between two bodies of floodwater.
“All persons were accounted for.”
Specialist crews drafted in to help out Northland
Kurt Bayer
Civil Defence Northland says specialist emergency crews from outside the region have been deployed to help with the response to severe weather.
Seventeen firefighters trained in water rescue and urban search and rescue have been sent to Whangārei and Kawakawa, while NZ Defence Force vehicles have also been assisting.
It warned roads across the region remain affected by flooding, slips, debris and washouts.
Locals are being urged to avoid travel overnight and follow road closures after several rescues from flooded vehicles.
Flood advisory issued from Timaru to the Waitaki
Kurt Bayer
Environment Canterbury has issued a flood advisory for foothill rivers and coastal areas from Timaru to the Waitaki River.
Steady rain began falling across the region this evening and is forecast to continue overnight.
“Farmers adjacent to flood-affected rivers should monitor their situation,” it advised on social media.
“Beware of increasing flows if you are working or recreating in affected riverbeds on Friday.”
Dramatic footage shows Waimamaku River in flood
Kurt Bayer
Police warn of the dangers of floodwaters
Kurt Bayer
Northland Police are urging motorists not to drive or walk through floodwaters as heavy rain continues.
“They could be stronger and deeper than they appear,” police said on social media.
They said they had responded to several incidents where people needed rescuing after becoming trapped in floodwaters.
Police said conditions were particularly troublesome on State Highway 10 at Kaeo and urged people to avoid unnecessary travel.
MetService evening weather update
Kurt Bayer
'We knew this was coming': Farmer was prepared for deluge
Kurt Bayer
Northland farmer Kayla Murray said she had already moved her livestock in preparation for today’s deluge.
“We knew this was coming, so we moved all the horses up days and days ago before it even started raining, because we know it floods here if it gets really bad,” she said.
Floodwaters had taken over a key road leading to her farm, with some vehicles struggling to drive through.
“We've been here a good couple of years and a couple of times [the water's] gone right over, but it hasn't been like this for a while.”
Murray said she would spend the next 24 hours tending to her animals and checking on community members.
'Stay home, stay dry, stay safe'
Kurt Bayer
Herald reporter David Fisher said Northland residents should “stay home, stay dry, stay safe”.
Speaking from Waitangi Golf Course this evening, Fisher said he had travelled from Kerikeri through Moerewa, Kawakawa and Paihia to Waitangi.
“The weather has been absolutely wild all day,” he said.
“I've seen in my drive around this afternoon, trees down, there's areas that have power out, the roads are flooded in many places."
Fisher said farmers were likely “looking out their window, wondering where their paddocks went and why there's a lake in their place”.
“There's a break in the rain right now, but it is forecast to continue, and the wind is really starting to hammer in from the east.”
Fisher described the ocean conditions as “rough,” adding that white-capped waves were rolling in from the east.
More than 50 roads - plus six state highways - shut across Northland
Kurt Bayer
Flooding, slips and other hazards have closed more than 50 roads across Northland.
It comes as six state highways are also shut throughout the region.
People are advised to avoid all travel and stay safe after Whangārei District Council and Far North District Council each declared a State of Emergency.
Road closures:
- Far North District Council: 24 roads closed as at 4.30pm
- Kaipara District Council: 20 roads closed as at 5pm
- Whangārei District Council: Nine roads closed as at 4.10pm
For the full list of roads and more information on each district, click on the names of the councils above.
'Significant event' to hit Tasman as subtropical storm moves to South Island
Kurt Bayer
The South Island is set to be hit with “serious” weather as the subtropical storm battering the North Island moves down the country – with Tasman, in particular, in line for some of the “more extreme” impacts.
MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says the “large weather system” bringing heavy rain and strong winds to much of the north is also impacting the South Island.
An orange heavy rain warning, with a high chance of being upgraded to red, is in place for the Tasman region northwest of Motueka, with about 24 hours of rain expected from 4pm today – up to 250mm of downpours, with 15-25mm/h at its peak.
Read the full story here.
Northland’s ‘intense rain’ should ease later tonight, MetService says
Kurt Bayer
MetService says the "intense rain" in Northland looks set to clear late tonight.
"Northland and parts of Auckland (especially in the north) see areas of intense rain this evening,” the forecaster says.
"That band of intense rain moves to Coromandel overnight and extends to Bay of Plenty early Friday morning.
"Things gradually start to clear over Northland late tonight."
Watch: Auckland under heavy rain warning as commuters head home
Kurt Bayer
Watch: Northland locals face flooded roads
Kurt Bayer
Group of men recall being stuck in car in Whangārei floodwaters for 45 min
Tom Dillane
Tauranga City Council issues landslide advice and provides update on closed parks
Tom Dillane
Tauranga City Council has issued advice for anyone who suspects or sees a landslide happening in their area.
"Evacuate immediately if it is safe to do so. Seek higher ground outside the path of the landslide. Getting out of the path of a landslide or debris flow path is your best protection.
"If you are feeling unsafe in your property please self-evacuate to family or friends, take animals and any medication you may need."
It also advised residents to take care on the roads, which could be slippery or have slips and fallen trees.
"After heavy rainfall, streams and rivers may continue to rise. If you see rising water, do not wait for official warnings. Head for higher ground and stay away from floodwater."
Several tracks and parks across the city are closed due to the weather warning, including:
All of Hopukiore/Mount Drury;
The road and access to the McLaren Falls Park from the Waterfall Track onwards, and camping area;
The Waikareao Estuary (Daisy Hardwick) Walkway between Novella Place and Maxwells Rd;
Puketomiro Pā in Kōpūrererua Valley;
The Novella Place slip repairs area;
The walkway on the estuary side off 7th Ave.
Adams Ave, between Pilot Bay and the Maunganui Rd roundabout has closed temporarily, except for the footpath on the shop side.
The council said this was a precautionary approach following geotechnical advice about the current risks on Mauao from anticipated rainfall. A landslide there after heavy rain claimed six lives on January 22.
The road will not be opened until the rain event has passed and the council had expert advice regarding the safety of the area.
Woman and children rescued from car trapped in rising floodwaters
Tom Dillane
A woman and two young children have been rescued from a car trapped by rising floodwaters in Northland this afternoon.
Fire and Emergency said the drama unfolded on Pigs Head Rd, Whananaki, when the woman’s car became trapped between two impassable bodies of water.
Hikurangi fire chief Trevor Gallagher said the brigade initially thought the car had gone off the road and was submerged in floodwaters.
A specialist swift water rescue team – which had been stationed in Whangārei ahead of the storm – was dispatched to Pigs Head Rd, and a rescue helicopter was put on standby.
However, when the Hikurangi Volunteer Fire Brigade arrived they found the driver had made her way through one flooded section of road, only to come to another where the water was even deeper.
With the water still rising she was unable to go back the way she had come.
Gallagher said she got her car onto an area of higher ground and called for help just before noon.
The water was also too deep for emergency service vehicles, so some of the firefighters, kitted out in lifejackets and safety gear, waded through the water to the car.
The primary-school-aged children were cold and frightened but otherwise unharmed.
The brigade then called in an ex-Army Unimog to drive through the flood and collect the trio, but while they were waiting a large contractor’s truck turned up.
The driver was able to collect the woman and children and drive them to the other side of the flood, where an ambulance crew was waiting to check them.
– Peter de Graaf, RNZ
Civil Defence Northland issues safety warnings ahead of wild weather overnight
Tom Dillane
Motorists rescued from flooded car north of Whangārei
Tom Dillane
Tauranga Mayor issues update on access to Mauao following fatal landslide with more heavy rain forecast
Tom Dillane
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale has provided a video update amid a heavy rain warning in place across the city – encouraging “everyone to take care out there”.
“We understand the frustration in the community about not knowing timeframes. In the next couple of weeks we will be in a position to be able to give more certainty around timeframes on Mauao and what’s happening there and the plan going forward,” Drysdale said.
NZDF personnel on the ground in Northland
Tom Dillane
Defence Minister Judith Collins says New Zealand Defence Force personnel are on the ground in Northland, with some personnel deployed to Whangārei today. More vehicles and drivers remain on standby at RNZAF Base Whenuapai if required, Collins said.
Northland highway closures
Tom Dillane
NZTA has closed SH1 at Whakapara with a detour via Jordan Valley Road and Hukerenui Road, that is not suitable for heavy vehicles.
There are also the following Northland highway closures:
SH1 Rangiahua – No detour
SH1 Mangamuka – No detour
SH10 Kāeo – No detour
SH15 North of Kaikohe – Detour via SH1 and SH12
SH12 Waimamaku – No detour
Road users may also encounter flooding on sections of SH15 between Tītoki and Pakotai due to its proximity to the river.
Check the NZTA Journey Planner for the latest updates.
Tom Dillane
Reminder to plan evacuations of pets and livestock
Tom Dillane
New Zealanders have been advised to include pets and livestock in emergency planning as severe weather continues to hit the country.
The Ministry for Primary Industries says “your animals are your responsibility and you need to include them in your planning in the event of an emergency”.
Evacuation plan:
If you have to leave your animals behind, make sure they’re in a secure and sheltered place either inside or outside your home.
If you have livestock or horses in paddocks near waterways that have the potential to flood like streams or rivers, move them to higher ground.
High-value stock or vulnerable stock (for example, stock close to giving birth or young stock) should be moved to areas which will be easily accessible in case they need assistance, supplementary feed or veterinary treatment.
Federated Farmers 0800 327 646 (0800 FARMING) or your local Civil Defence Centre may be able to provide advice if you need assistance with evacuating your animals and finding a safe shelter place to contain them.
Visit the Ministry for Primary Industries website for more information about animals affected by flooding, and advice for livestock, lifestyle block, horse and pet owners.
Vehicles cross flooded SH1 north of Whangārei
Tom Dillane
All of Auckland region under orange heavy rain warning
Tom Dillane
As of 4pm, all of the Auckland region is now under an orange heavy rain warning.
Residents in Auckland south of Whangaparāoa, including the Hunua Range, can expect 20 hours of rain from 4pm today to noon Friday. MetService forecasts 50-90mm of rain on top of what has already fallen.
Residents on Aotea Great Barrier Island can expect 19 hours of rain from 4pm today to 11am Friday. MetService forecasts 80-120mm of rain on top of what has already fallen. Peaks rates of 25-40mm/h this afternoon through to Friday morning.
Auckland from Whangaparāoa northwards can expect 16 hours from 4pm today to 8am Friday. MetSevice forecasts 50-100mm of rain on top of what has already fallen. Peak rates of 10-20mm/h, increasing to 20-40mm/h from this afternoon.
Tom Dillane
Fire and Emergency warns not to drive through floodwaters
Tom Dillane
Aucklanders asked to consider delaying putting bins out
Tom Dillane
Aucklanders have been urged to consider delaying putting their bins out on the roadside tonight, and instead placing them out in the early morning.
“There's more wind forecast overnight, and kerbside bins can cause mess and havoc. And bring them in as soon as they've been emptied if you can,” Auckland Emergency Management warned on Facebook.
Warning to Auckland motorists for school pick‑ups and afternoon commute
Tom Dillane
Group of Bay of Islands residents evacuate to marae
Tom Dillane
A small number of whānau have self-evacuated to Waikare Marae in the Northland community near the Bay of Islands.
"If people do find themselves in a sticky situation overnight, they should call 111 if their life or safety are at risk. Emergency services will always give top priority to calls where people are in danger,” a Civil Defence spokeswoman said.
People visit a wild Whangārei Falls
Tom Dillane
Despite a state of emergency being declared across the region due to heavy rain and flooding, people have been visiting an intense Hātea River flowing over the Whangārei Falls.
Flooding closes roads across the Far North and Whangārei
Tom Dillane
Far North District Council is reporting 17 local roads are currently closed due to flooding. They include Kaitāia-Awaroa Rd, Diggers Valley Rd in Herekino and Fairburn Rd in Kaitāia.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is reporting State Highway 12 at Waimamaku is also closed due to flooding at Lowes Bridge.
State Highway 15 is blocked in both directions on Te Pua Rd because of flooding, between Ōhaewai and Ōkaihau.
Nine Whangārei District Council roads remain closed as well, including a bridge washout at Peach Orchard Rd.
Also closed are: Kaiikanui Rd, Pukenui Rd, Marua Rd, Whananaki North Rd, Ngunguru Rd, Whangaruru North Rd and Russell Rd at Punaruku.
Auckland’s Tāmaki Drive set to reopen for the evening commute
Tom Dillane
Auckland Transport said Tāmaki Drive, a key route from the city centre heading east, is still currently closed. But from about 3.30pm today, it will begin operating on a one-lane system in time for the evening commute.
Traffic will only be allowed in one direction, heading away from the city along the lane closest to the harbour. At around 5am Friday, the traffic flow will be switched to heading towards the city in time for the morning commute.
The road was earlier closed between Mission Bay and the yacht club in Ōrākei following a landslide.
Auckland Emergency Management issues update on weather dangers
Tom Dillane
NZTA issues update to Auckland network ahead of afternoon commute
Vera Alves
The weather currently affecting Auckland will likely have an impact on school pick-ups and this afternoon’s commute home.
Auckland Transport Operations Centre (ATOC) manager, Claire Howard, is advising Aucklanders to be safe and plan ahead.
“There may be a higher safety risk out on the roads this afternoon and into the evening, while more public transport services may be affected.
“Please drive to the conditions, allow extra time to travel, and use the AT Mobile App to check for any public transport service changes.
“If the wet weather worsens, you might want to consider avoiding or postponing travel if you’re able. And if you’re out driving and conditions suddenly worsen, consider pulling over somewhere safe and waiting out the weather before continuing.
“Drivers should also think about giving themselves plenty of time to slow down early, and to maintain a safe following distance,” she says.
NZTA is warning road users that they should expect travel may be disrupted over the Auckland Harbour Bridge this afternoon and overnight as high winds may force lane closures or short periods of full closure to ensure safety.
With the level of winds predicted, drivers of high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are advised to avoid the Auckland Harbour Bridge and use the western ring route on State Highways 16 and 18.
All drivers are reminded to drive to the conditions and pay attention to electronic message boards on the motorway, which will advise of any lane closures and speed limit reductions.
Roads closed:
- Tāmaki Drive between Hapimana Street and Atkin Ave is closed due to rock fall. Traffic is being diverted. It could still be closed for the evening commute.
- Falls Road, Warkworth. The flood alert system on the Mahurangi River at Falls Road near Warkworth has activated. Please avoid taking Falls Road, particularly the sections where the road fords the river or that are typically affected by flooding.
Ferries:
- Due to weather conditions, all Gulf Harbour and Pine Harbour ferries are cancelled for today.
- For other ferry services, there may be delays and cancellations, please check the AT Mobile App for live updates.
Buses:
- Tāmaki Drive buses are currently being diverted due to a rock fall (774, 775 and Tāmaki Link).
- There is currently surface flooding on some parts of the network, and this may cause delays and cancellations this afternoon. please check the AT Mobile App for live updates.
Trains:
- Currently running as per schedule.
Communities cut off, worst to come
Vera Alves
Rural communities near Kawakawa, in the Bay of Islands, were closed off by flooding, said community board member Roddy Pihema.
That included the areas of Waiomio Valley, Matawaia and Motatau, although he admitted residents there were used to being cut off. State Highway 1 between Mōrewa and Kawakawa has held up well so far, with the bridges staying open, even at high tide at 2.20pm, he said.
However, if the rain continued, problems would occur tomorrow, Pihema predicted.
It could take two to three days for rainwater from upper catchments to flow through Kawakawa and that was when the bridges would be cut off, he said.
“We’re not out of the neck until that water has passed through.”
'Please don't go out,' Far North District Mayor asks community
Vera Alves
Far North District Mayor Moko Tepania said in an update online this afternoon that the state of emergency would give extra powers to respond.
"Kaitāia and the wider Te Hiku community are now isolated due to flooding and will likely remain so until at least tomorrow."
"With the high tide due within the next few hours for both the east and west coast, we know other low-lying Far North communities will also be affected."
"Our main message today whānau is please don't go out. Stay at home and stay in touch with your whānau and friends to make sure they're safe."
Northland police urge people to limit non-essential travel
Vera Alves
Northland police said they are already seeing some “pretty wild weather” across the district so far and have urged people to travel safely.
Coromandel region bracing for heavier rain later today
Vera Alves
Meanwhile in Coromandel, things are looking "pretty quiet" as the council keeps an eye on heavier rain expected later today.
Thames-Coromandel District Council communications team leader Michael Dobie told the Herald council staff are "crossing their fingers" things don't go south.
Port Jackson Rd remains closed due to flooding at the Ōhinewai Ford.
The only other road impacted earlier in the day was Kennedy Bay Rd, where a fallen tree blocked both lanes. It is now open.
Dobie said people need to drive to the conditions and stay away from floodwaters.
"Any local issues can be reported to council while issues on state highways should be reported to NZTA."
Whangārei and Far North councils declare State of Emergency
Vera Alves
Whangārei District Council and Far North District Council have each declared a State of Emergency for the next seven days, beginning from 2pm today.
Whangārei District Council Mayor Ken Couper said declaring an emergency was a step that would allow Civil Defence access to emergency powers, granting authority to protect life and property in emergency events.
The most commonly-used emergency powers include evacuating premises and places, entering premises, closing roads and public places, removing aircraft, vessels, vehicles and requisitioning property, equipment, material or supplies.
Of these, enabling evacuations is often the key reason for an emergency declaration.
Whangarei District Civil Defence controller Victoria Harwood said the MetService heavy rain warning (red) is in place until 4am on Friday.
Officials were unsure at this stage if they needed to make use of the emergency powers an emergency declaration provides, but a decision to make the declaration was made given the severe weather.
“This will ensure we have those extra powers available to us should we need them.”
Far North District Council said the declaration is in response to severe weather already isolating communities, with 17 local roads in the Far North closed, and conditions expected to worsen overnight.
Far North residents are urged to not to travel and to avoid rivers, beaches and flood waters due to possible sewage and septic tank overflows.
High tide is due around mid afternoon for much of the Far North. Local tidal times can be checked here -https://tides.niwa.co.nz/.
If people are concerned about rapidly rising waters, they should act quickly and evacuate to higher ground.
Auckland nears a month's worth of rain
Vera Alves
Auckland councillor Richard Hills said Auckland has already had nearly the same amount of rainfall in the last 24 hours as it would normally get throughout the month of March on average.
“So it’s still a lot,” Hills said.
He said heavy rain and strong winds are forecast to continue for the next 24 hours.
“School pick-up and peak traffic after work will be fairly hectic, so please be careful,” he said.
Vera Alves
Cape Rēinga records 132km/h gusts
Vera Alves
MetService meteorologist John Law said the strongest wind gusts in Northland have been over Cape Rēinga, which recorded gusts of around 132km/h.
Also in the last 24 hours, the Coastguard station at Hokianga saw gusts of 129km/h, followed by Tutukākā Harbour with winds of 109km/h, and Whangārei with gusts of 72km/h, Law said.
"It's one of those situations where it’s persistently windy."
Law said while Kerikeri only had wind gusts of around 60km/h, the area had seen more heavy rainfall in the last 36 hours, with Kerikeri airport recording 200mm of rainfall.
Vera Alves
Vera Alves
Delay all non-essential travel, Far North mayor says
Vera Alves
Far North Mayor Moko Tepania is urging people to delay all non-essential travel until floodwaters recede – hopefully after low tide tomorrow.
Tepania said nine local roads were currently closed by flooding, along with State Highways 1 and 10.
He said currently SH10 was passable in a 4WD but it would likely be fully closed over the next couple of hours as high tide hits.
High tide on the east coast, including Kāeo, is at about 2.20pm.
Tepania said it would be the west coast's turn to feel the full effects of the flooding when the tide peaks there at about 4.30pm.
– RNZ
Heaviest falls likely for Golden Bay/Tākaka Hill in Tasman region
Vera Alves
An orange heavy rain warning is in effect for Tasman northwest of Motueka, with up to 300 millimetres of rain expected in the ranges between now and Friday afternoon.
Murray Stephens from the Pakawau Campground said it had been raining in Golden Bay this morning, but it wasn't severe.
"I've just read a report from the district council saying we are going to get reasonably heavy rain from this afternoon, to tomorrow afternoon, but it is not likely to have impacts with floods, it should be contained in the riverbanks."
He said they were hoping to get through the next two days without too much trouble.
"We've certainly tied down anything that is loose and told people to expect a bit of rain."
He said the campground had been fully booked until last week, and was quieter this week given the wet weather forecast, but they were fully booked again for Easter.
Tasman District Council's hydrology team said the updated forecast had increased rainfall totals for the area northwest of Motueka and added in the potential for thunderstorms.
The chance of the warning being upgraded to red had also been increased to high.
It now had the potential to be a significant event for areas around Golden Bay and Tākaka Hill.
The heaviest falls were likely for Golden Bay/Tākaka Hill from early Thursday evening, with potentially another period of rain on Friday morning.
"This has led to predicted flows in Tākaka to be higher and arriving later, now more likely to arrive after midnight tonight and through into later Friday morning."
From Mārahau to Riwaka, and along the lower Motueka tributaries including the Brooklyn Stream and as far up as the Pearse River and the Graham River, there could be heavy falls leading to high river levels and the potential for slips.
– RNZ
Vera Alves
Police say everyone has been accounted for and there are no reports of injury following reports that a vehicle had become trapped in floodwaters at Pigs Head Rd at Opuawhanga, about 20 minutes northeast of Whangārei just after 12pm today.
Emergency staff deployed to Whangārei and Kawakawa
Vera Alves
Fire and Emergency New Zealand has deployed 17 firefighters with specialist skills in water response and urban search and rescue to Whangārei and Kawakawa ahead of the severe weather.
They comprise an eight-person specialist water rescue team with an operations office, and an urban search and rescue team of nine. Half of the have deployed to Kawakawa.
"In many areas across our district, we heavily rely on our volunteer brigades and these specialist teams will be pre-positioned to support them," Fire and Emergency said.
"We advise people impacted by the predicted bad weather to stay at home but be prepared to move if required. If life or property is at risk, call 111. To stay informed, please see your local Civil Defence."
'Comes with living in paradise': Flooded-in Whananaki residents remain positive
Vera Alves
Residents are "flooded in" in the Northland coastal community of Whananaki. General Store owner Dallas Gurney estimates the area has seen about 130mm of rain "since 4am this morning".
"You can't get out on Whananaki North Road, you can't get out on Whananaki South Road, or Hailes Road, or the various other detours. If you're in Whananaki, you're staying in Whananaki and if you're out of Whananaki, there's no getting in at the moment."
Despite the soggy conditions, Gurney says the community is feeling pretty positive.
"We're feeling pretty chipper. The power isn't off. It's always good when the power's not off."
Gurney says locals are generally well prepared for the conditions, having stocked up on fuel, food and supplies – thanks in part to advanced weather warnings. "They've done all of the things remote communities should do in situations like this".
Whananaki sits on an estuary and with more rain forecast, Gurney said the community is awaiting the 2pm high tide. "We've got water coming down the river and water going up the river at high tide and in the middle, we've got the main road out."
He expected flooding will go up at high tide and then subside towards the evening. In preparation, Civil Defence has stood up local evacuation centres and some residents who ventured out to work and became trapped are being sheltered at Whakapaumahara Marae Whananaki.
Additionally, Gurney said a few campers have been moved from tents into cabins at the campsite.
"We're used to being cut off, we're used to the power being off for days. It comes with living in paradise."
Marae open for long-haul
Vera Alves
Ngātiwai marae in Northland are able to take people for the long haul if needed, according to Dr Rōpata Diamond from the Ngātiwai Trust Board.
An emergency management meeting on Thursday confirmed the area will not only be impacted by the current storm but another one that is set to hit on Sunday and Monday, Diamond said.
Five marae in the hard-hit coast northeast of Whangārei were now open, with Mōkau and Ngāiotonga Marae already hosting people from the January floods, he said.
Other marae now open include Ngunguru, Ōakura and Tūparehuia in Bland Bay. Whakapaumahara Marae in Whananaki is now inaccessible due to flooding on the roads and in the car park, while Ōtetao Reti Marae had to temporarily close because of a water pump fault, but will reopen from 3pm today.
Ōtetao Reti Marae to reopen this afternoon
Vera Alves
Ōtetao Reti Marae chairman Paora Glassie said the marae planned to reopen at 3pm now their water pump was fixed.
He earlier encouraged people in the Punaruku area to head to other marae if they needed to.
Glassie said people should be mindful of road conditions and only travel to the marae if they felt it was safe to do so.
Vera Alves
Most of the country is now blanketed in rain with MetService's radar showing a wet front sweeping its way south.
South Otago downward including Southland and Stewart Island/Rakiura seem to be the only areas staying relatively dry at the moment.
Vera Alves
Questioned on the vulnerability of Northland's roading network, Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell said New Zealand's topography means roads have to be "built through hills", but said NZTA have taken proactive measures to clear roads.
Preservation of life is the main priority – Mark Mitchell
Vera Alves
Asked about concerns that locals will be complacent, given the frequency of sever weather events, Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell said "complacency leads to poor decisions" and his priority is the preservation of life.
Mitchell said emergency services are preparing for the worst, but hoping for the best.
"We know we're going to get a substantial amount of rain and we're going to get some wind with that as well, we know that will continue on through the night".
The minister urged people to stay out of the water, pointing to a recent death in Waipā where a man got stuck in floodwaters.
"Even if they look benign, you don't know what's under the surface and sometimes the current can be much stronger than it looks."
Minister says officials being proactive, don't have the luxury of 'she'll be right' attitude
Vera Alves
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell said any decisions would be made early, saying he wanted to avoid any "optimism bias" which he said previously existed in the system.
"There was this fear of the boy that cried wolf, and the typical Kiwi 'she'll be right' type attitude, we don't have the luxury of that anymore and so we've been very proactive in the way that we're making decisions early."
Hydrologists have been out doing work to assess ground absorption for landslip risk, Mitchell said.
"Everyone is making sure that that they are pre-positioning and they're getting the personnel, the expertise and the resources in place."
"Everyone is really vigilant," he said.
Search and Rescue teams already deployed to the north
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Police have increased staffing levels and Fire and Emergency New Zealand has already deployed Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams and water rescue teams to the north, Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell said.
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell, and Whangãrei Mayor Ken Couper speak to the media
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Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell, and Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper are now holding a joint media stand-up on the severe weather.
Speaking from Whangārei, Mitchell said the main areas of impact are Northland , Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Tasman Nelson, and there has been a "significant amount of work done" by local authorities to prepare for the wild weather.
"The most recent updates that I have are that we have already lost roads north of Kaitāia", Mitchell said.
The minister said the Government is "here to support" as the rain and localised storms are expected to continue over the next 24 hours.
Top of the South Island braces as bad weather moves down the country
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The top of the South Island is bracing for a deluge as the weather system hitting the North Island moves down the country.
An orange heavy rain warning is in effect for Tasman northwest of Motueka, and up to 300mm of rain is expected in the ranges.
Murray Stephens from the Pakawau Campground says it has been raining in Golden Bay this morning, but it isn't severe.
"I've just read a report from the district council saying that we're going to get reasonably heavy rain from this afternoon to tomorrow afternoon, but it's not likely to impact with floods and things, it should be contained inside the river banks."
Orange heavy rain warnings are also in place for the Richmond and Bryant ranges, as well as parts of Westland, South Canterbury, and North Otago.
– RNZ
Northland fire chief gets ready for worst of the weather expected tonight
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A Northland fire chief says he and his crew are getting ready to respond to the worst of tonight's wild weather.
A red rain watch is in place for Northland, with the heaviest rain expected to hit at around 6pm tonight.
Karikari Peninsula fire chief Thomson Lawrence says some of the creeks in the area are already looking high, with some surface flooding on roads, and it's only going to get worse.
Lawrence says he and his crew may have to pump out houses and evacuate people later tonight.
– RNZ
Top of the South Island braces as bad weather moves down the country
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The top of the South Island is bracing for a deluge as the weather system hitting the North Island moves down the country.
An orange heavy rain warning is in effect for Tasman northwest of Motueka, and up to 300mm of rain is expected in the ranges.
Murray Stephens from the Pakawau Campground says it has been raining in Golden Bay this morning, but it isn't severe.
"I've just read a report from the district council saying that we're going to get reasonably heavy rain from this afternoon to tomorrow afternoon but it's not likely to impact with floods and things, it should be contained inside the river banks."
Orange heavy rain warnings are also in place for the Richmond and Bryant ranges, as well as parts of Westland, south Canterbury and north Otago.
– RNZ
Power restored to all One NZ sites
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Power has been restored to all One NZ sites, the network said, following outages across multiple cell sites.
Power restored to 200-plus homes in Tutukākā
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Power has returned to more than 200 homes in Tutukākā with Northpower working to fix a further 290 affected customers.
Fallen trees across power lines are to blame amidst the region's severe weather, with crews expecting repairs to be completed around 2pm.
In Tinopai, teams are working to restore power for 109 residents. Northpower says lines and equipment should be treated as live at all times.
More than 200 without power in the Far North
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Top Energy is reporting several active faults on their network impacting 223 customers in the Far North. It said the faults ranged from vegetation on lines to damaged equipment.
"Flooding across the region is making access to some faults difficult; fault crews are continuing to work in very challenging conditions to restore power to as many properties as possible."
Top Energy encouraged people to check in on their neighbours, whānau and anyone who may need extra support given the possibility of prolonged outages.
"Please stay well clear of any downed lines or damaged equipment and always treat lines as live."
Outages can be reported by calling 0800 867 363.
Flooding alert for Mahurangi River at Falls Rd
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Authorities have issued a flooding alert for the Mahurangi River at Falls Rd near Warkworth, the location where a man was swept away and died during a storm on January 24.
"Please avoid taking Falls Road, particularly the sections where the road fords the river or that are typically affected by flooding. Stay safe – never drive through floodwaters," Auckland Emergency Management said this afternoon.
Large tree falls near Whangārei Heads
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A large tree has fallen at Tamaterau near Whangārei Heads.
Parua Bay resident Colin Edwards said traffic was being redirected through a nearby layby.
'Avoid non-essential trips,' Auckland Deputy Mayor says
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Ōrākei Ward councillor and Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson has asked locals to avoid "non-essential trips".
"A rockfall earlier today has led emergency services to close Tāmaki Drive between Hapimana St and Atkin Ave," she said.
"Crews are on-site, working to make the area safe, and traffic and buses are being diverted in the meantime. I urge people to please avoid any non‑essential trips so teams can get things sorted as quickly as possible."
Adams Avenue in Mount Maunganui temporarily closed
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The road beneath Mauao in Mount Maunganui will be temporarily closed to vehicles today, Tauranga City Council says.
This is a precautionary approach following geotechnical advice about the current risks on Mauao from anticipated rainfall.
Adams Ave, between Pilot Bay and the Maunganui Rd roundabout, will be temporarily closed to vehicles from 5pm.
The footpath on the ‘shop side’ of Adams Ave will remain open. There may be some disruption as the road closure is being set up.
"Whilst no definite timeframe can be given for the duration of the closure, it is temporary," the council said.
"The road will not be opened until the rain event has passed and we have expert advice regarding the safety of the area."
Image shows Tāmaki Drive landslide
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An image supplied to the Herald by Fire and Emergency New Zealand shows the Tāmaki Drive landslide.
Kaipara District Council offloading sandbags
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Sandbags are available to the public on request at Harrison’s yards, 25 Station Road in Dargaville and Downers yard, 32 Hurndall St East, Maungatūroto, Kaipara District Council says.
A truckload of sand is also up at the Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) carpark in Mangawhai, and bags are available for people to fill themselves.
You can also purchase sandbags from places like landscape, building and hardware suppliers. Give them a call first to make sure they have them available.
Sandbags are useful for addressing localised flooding (for example, to stop water flowing under a garage door or diverting water downhill), but they don't protect against water coming from under a house and through floorboards.
Residents and businesses are responsible for providing their own sandbags in preparation for a storm event. If a property is regularly subjected to flooding, then it is the property owner's responsibility to be proactive and take such precautions to protect themselves and their property.
Please remember – if you are in danger or your property is under immediate threat during a storm event, please contact emergency services on 111.
Kaitāia township and Far North cut off
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Kāeo resident Marie Kerr is hunkered down in the safety of her State Highway 10 home, watching as the Far North settlement floods.
SH10 is closed to all vehicles as floodwaters have made the road impassable.
No detours are available to or from Kaitāia, leaving the Kaitāia township and Far North isolated.
Tāmaki Drive cordoned off following slip
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Severe weather warnings update
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MetService has delivered fresh updates on the severe weather, with more rain on its way and expected to filter down south.
A red heavy rain warning remains in place for Northland east of Kaikohe from Doubtless Bay to Whangārei, until 4am tomorrow. Residents can expect a further 100-130mm of rain on top of what has already fallen.
The remainder of Northland is under an orange heavy rain warning until the same time tomorrow, with a high chance of upgrading to red.
Thunderstorms are possible across the region from later this afternoon.
Meanwhile, an orange heavy rain warning is also in place across the Coromandel Peninsula until 6pm tomorrow, with a deluge of up to 250mm possible for the Coromandel Range.
Orange heavy rain warnings are in place across large chunks of the North Island including for the Bay of Plenty west of Whakatāne, Auckland from Whangaparāoa northwards, the Hunua Ranges, Aotea Great Barrier Island and Taranaki Maunga.
All the above regions have a low risk of changing to red alert, besides Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty west of Whakatāne which have a high chance of upgrading.
In the South Island, orange heavy rain warnings are in place for the Richmond and Bryant ranges, including Rai Valley, Tasman northwest of Motueka, ranges of the Westland District, North Otago and Canterbury south of Timaru and east Ōtemātātā.
Strong wind warnings are in place for Northland, Auckland, Aotea Great Barrier Island, the Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Taihape, Whanganui and south and central Taranaki.
Residents in those areas have been advised to secure items that could be picked up by strong gusts.
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Northlanders asked to stay off the roads
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Northlanders are asked to stay off the roads, as the worst of the rain is still to come, along with high tide at about 2pm.
“Please don't underestimate today's heavy rain, we probably haven't seen the worst of it yet," Whangārei District Council Civil Defence Emergency Operations Centre controller Victoria Harwood said.
"If you're safe where you are, you might be best to stay there."
Whangārei is expecting another 100-130mm of rain today, with the weather forecast to clear at about 4am tomorrow.
Roads closed in the district are:
Kaiikanui Rd – flooding
Pukenui Rd – a contractor has been sent to clear a land slip
Massey Rd - a fallen tree is being cleared
Whananaki North Rd – flooding
Russell Rd at Helena Bay Hill – major slip from January's storm
A number of roads are down to one lane, with drivers advised to use caution.
The following marae are open for whānau:
• Mōkau Marae
• Ngāiotonga Marae
• Ngunguru Marae
• Ōakura Marae
• Tūparehuia Marae
• Whakapaumahara Marae
Tāmaki Drive landslide update
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Fire and Emergency New Zealand has left the scene and police remain at the cordons.
The cordon begins from the corner of Kitemoana St and stretches towards Mission Bay.
Tāmaki Drive landslide remains dangerous due to high winds and severe rain
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Police on the scene told the Herald the landslide remained a danger due to the high winds and severe rain.
Reporters on the scene were allowed to get 100m from the slip.
Several large rocks were seen on the road.
'All of Whananaki' flooded
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Hikurangi School principal and Whananaki Civil Defence co-ordinator Jodi Edwards was stuck at Whakapaumahara Marae because of flooding.
He said "all of Whananaki" was flooded.
"High tide is 2pm, so we're looking at massive flooding across the area," he said.
The marae was open to anyone who needed it, as was the Whananaki Fire Station.
Edwards' advice was for people to avoid travel, stay off the roads, and make decisions early in case they need to evacuate. "Everything is compromised at the moment."
With a wind watch still in place, he believed there could be a loss of power in the area this evening.
He also encouraged people to tune into the local Whananaki radio on 88.2FM so they could keep informed.
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Rain likely to impact more than half Whakatāne District, council says
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Whakatāne District Council says through to early Saturday morning, parts of our rohe/region could see 200-250mm of rain, with very heavy rain expected from early Friday. Peak intensities may reach 25-30mm an hour.
That was a lot of rain, over a long period, it said and was likely to impact more than half of the Whakatāne District, especially western and coastal areas like Matatā, Manawahe, Herepuru, Pikowai and surrounding areas.
It advised people who lived or worked near a cliff to relocate to somewhere less risky if possible, for people to clear drains and gutters where it was safe to do so, to make sure they had essentials ready and phones charged and not to drive or walk through floodwaters, as it was more dangerous than it looks.
Anyone who needed urgent help could call 07 306 0500 (24/7) or if it was not urgent email whakatane.govt.nz/fixit.
– RNZ
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Tāmaki electorate MP Act party's Brooke van Velden has spread message of the landslide on her Facebook:
"Tāmaki electorate residents
"Tāmaki Drive is closed between Mission Bay and Akarana Marine Sports Centre in Ōrākei due to weather related events. Please take care driving and find other routes.
"We will inform you with updates about reopening."
Orange warnings added for North Otago, parts of Canterbury and Westland
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Heavy rain warnings are now also in place for Westland and North Otago as a front sweeping across the country brings heavy rain and gales.
MetService has issued orange heavy rain warnings for North Otago and Canterbury south of Timaru and east of Ōtemātātā, and the ranges of the Westland District.
Up to 300 millimetres of rain is forecast for parts of Westland with thunderstorms possible from Friday morning.
In North Otago and Canterbury, up to 90mm is forecast about the ranges and lesser amounts at lower elevations and near the coast.
– RNZ
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Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei chief operations officer Shazeaa Salim told the Herald: "We are aware of the slip near our papa kāinga [village] and have informed our whānau. Our kaitiaki [custodians] will continue to look out for the safety of our whenua [land], whānau and wider community."
Rock fall closes Tāmaki Drive between Hapimana Street and Atkin Avenue
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Due to a rock fall, emergency services have closed Tāmaki Drive between Hapimana Street and Atkin Avenue. Traffic and buses are being diverted.
Both Auckland Sea Kayaks and a former employee of Nat's Roller Club, based in Mission Bay, say while they have no details on the current landslide, the cliff face on Tāmaki Drive is a "popular spot" for slips and have both experienced one in previous years.
Police have also been advised about some rocks that have fallen onto the road. Authorities are in the area supporting the work of Fire and Emergency.
For up-to-date public transport information please check the AT Mobile App or AT Journey Planner.
Kerikeri schools closing early due to weather
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Kerikeri High School and Kerikeri Primary School are closing at 12.15pm today because of the weather.
"We understand that this may cause some disruption for whānau, however after assessing road conditions, and the forecast weather from early afternoon, we feel that it is safer to end the day early," Kerikeri High School said in a statement online.
Buses will run as per usual but at the earlier finish time.
Parents are able to collect students at any time but are asked to let the school reception know beforehand.
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