Residents are being urged to be prepared for Cyclone Hale which is scheduled to hit areas from Taupō to Coromandel to Gisborne and the East Cape from tomorrow (Tuesday, January 10).

MetService and Civil Defence Emergency Management have warned heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous coastal conditions are expected.

Residents in Tairāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay and the Coromandel Peninsula, are encouraged to stay up to date by checking MetService warnings and following Civil Defence Emergency Management Group on social media. Wairoa District Council will also be updating its Facebook page and website.

Residents are urged to be aware and ensure they have an emergency plan and whānau are prepared. That includes bringing inside, or tying down, items which could be lifted by strong winds. Turn trampolines upside down. Remove debris or loose items from around your property, clear drains and gutters. Bring your pets indoors, ensure livestock are gathered in a safe place and secure boats or boat trailers.

A Niwa forecast had the subtropical low slamming into East Cape overnight on Tuesday.

But a Sunday night update from MetService showed the low sweeping south over Coromandel on Tuesday evening, moving across to southern Waikato, then pushing southeast across Taupō and landing in Hawke's Bay on Wednesday evening.

While uncertainty remains about which path the severe weather would take, MetService was warning those in affected regions to be on guard from Monday evening through to Thursday.

Anyone with any concerns or reports should contact the Council on 06 838 7309.

9 January 2023

Back to Archive