10/04/2026
Cyclone Vaianu is expected to move southwards across the North Island on Sunday, 12 April. The combination of damaging winds, heavy rain and coastal inundation makes this a multi-hazard, potentially life-threatening event. The locations of the most severe impacts associated with Cyclone Vaianu, such as power outages, falling trees, flooding, slips, road closures and isolated communities are highly dependent on the cyclone's track.
There are three updated weather warnings from MetService New Zealand on the expected impacts of Cyclone Vaianu to the Auckland region.
STRONG WIND WARNING - RED for Aotea Great Barrier Island for 13 hours from 05:00am Sunday 12 April to 6:00pm Sunday 12 April.
What to expect: Severe gale easterlies changing to severe gale westerly Sunday afternoon, with damaging gusts of 140km/h. Note winds easing from the north during Sunday afternoon.
What to do: Be prepared to shelter in place, stay indoors and away from trees. Avoid travel. Be ready for communication outages.
HEAVY RAIN WARNING - ORANGE FOR AUCKLAND AND AOTEA GREAT BARRIER ISLAND for 12 hours from 02:00am Saturday 11 April to 2.00pm Sunday 12 April
What to expect: 70 to 100mm of rain to accumulate. Peak rates of 10 to 20mm an hour.
What to do: Be prepared for streams and rivers that may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips and difficult driving conditions are possible. Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.
STRONG WIND WATCH - ORANGE FOR AUCKLAND EXCEPT AOTEA GREAT BARRIER ISLAND for 19 hours from 09:00pm Saturday 11 April to 04:00pm Sunday 12 April
What to expect: Severe gale easterlies changing to severe gale westerlies Sunday afternoon. Gusting 130km per hour in exposed places. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Red warning.
What to do: Damage to trees, powerlines and unsecured structures possible. Driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles. Prepare your property by securing items that can be picked up by strong winds. Drive cautiously.
Now's the time to prepare while there's still time. Talk to whānau and friends and make a plan - find out more at https://www.metservice.com/warnings/tropical-cyclone-activity and Get Home Ready
Auckland Emergency Management Auckland Council
