Preparation for Cyclone Gabrielle advised

Farmers, growers and rural communities are being urged to take precautions and get prepared for the arrival of Cyclone Gabrielle.

The storm has now intensified into a category 3 severe tropical cyclone and is expected to travel down the east of New Zealand. Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate from Sunday, bringing high levels of rainfall and severe gales (up to 150km/h). The cyclone is expected to hit the top of the North Island on Sunday and reach the eastern side of the North Island between Monday and early Tuesday.

MetService has issued a heavy rain watch for Northland and Auckland north of Whangaparāoa from 1am Sunday until midnight Tuesday, when periods of heavy rain are expected.

There remains uncertainty around the exact path of Cyclone Gabrielle as it approaches, so please keep up to date with the latest weather information at: www.metservice.com/warnings/home

This weather will affect areas already sodden, flooded and where land is unstable from previous weather events.  Expect and prepare for the severe gales and the possibility of further heavy rain to interrupt power supplies, cause flooding, generate coastal surges, and cause treefall and further slips. Previously unaffected farms may be affected this time.

Steps to prepare your farm include:

• Have a plan for your crop
• Where possible, clear any debris and silt traps
• Secure items and equipment that may be shifted in high winds such as irrigators, trailers, loose sheeting etc.
• Check your back-up power supply is working and ensure you have enough fuel
• Ensure you have enough emergency drinking water and food supplies, spare batteries, etc.
• Take care travelling on roads, traversing hills, and check bridges and culverts for structural damage.

Farmers and growers already cleaning up from the last two rainfall events may be struggling to prepare for this next event. Reach out to our neighbours and other growers. Help others if you can, especially those who may require special assistance.

If you are in immediate danger, call 111. If you need advice and support, call the Rural Support Trust - 0800 787 254. Your industry product groups and HortNZ are also here to support you. 

Further flood support links, contacts and resources can be found here

Civil Defence - How to get ready for an emergency

Read the latest weather updates here