Saturday, 11 April 2026 | 07:06 pm
Disasters Happen! The good news is, it’s easy to make sure you, and the people and things you care about, are ready.
Get Ready
There are many different ways you can stay informed about what is happening before, during and after an event. Find out more about how to stay informed and up to date.
Stay Informed
Cyclone Vaianu is forecast to bring strong winds, heavy rain and large swells to the Bay of Plenty. This storm has the potential to be a significant and damaging event.
More rain falling on ground that’s already saturated, means impacts like fallen trees, landslides, flooding and dangerous river conditions are likely.
Take steps now to get ready before Cyclone Vaianu arrives.
Bring inside or tie down anything that strong winds could break or pick up. If you have a trampoline, turn it upside down to minimise the surface area exposed to wind and tie it down firmly.
Remove any debris or loose items from around your property. Branches and firewood can become airborne in strong winds.
Check on neighbours, especially those who may be elderly, isolated, or without communications.
Clear waste and debris away from gutters drains.
Make and practise your emergency plan, make a grab bag and have emergency supplies in case you need to evacuate.
If you do not feel safe at home, are worried, or live in an exposed area, consider relocating early to stay with family or friends in a safer location. Moving before the severe weather arrives is safer and easier than leaving during dangerous conditions. Remember to take your pets and medication with you.
Be prepared with torches and have a solar or battery powered radio so you can keep up with the latest news and alerts.
Find advice to get prepared at GetReady.govt.nz
For the latest weather information including weather watches and warnings, visit MetService
Your local councils are the first port of call for local information, you'll find their emails below:
For state highway information, visit the New Zealand Transport Agency.
If life, health or property is at risk, call 111.
In the event of a civil defence emergency listen to your radio, including a battery powered radio or car radio if power is out. The following stations will provide vital information and updates as they come to hand during an emergency.
Tauranga and Western Bay
Rotorua
Whakatāne
Edgecumbe, Ōpōtiki and Kawerau
Ōhope Beach
Te Teko and Tāneatua
