As New Zealand braces for severe weather, heavy rain warnings have been issued for various regions, with the Bay of Plenty and Northland particularly affected. Starting from Friday, May 9, 2025, the Bay of Plenty will experience heavy rain from 3 PM until 3 AM Saturday, with the MetService alerting residents to prepare for potential flooding and hazardous conditions.
This warning comes as pockets of heavy rain have already been observed across the South Island on Thursday, May 8, 2025. A cold front advancing northward is expected to bring sustained rainfall and strong winds, intensifying the already challenging weather conditions. The MetService has detailed several weather alerts that will be in effect over the next 24 to 36 hours.
Among the alerts are:
- Orange heavy rain warning for Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound, in effect until 9 PM on May 8, 2025.
- Orange heavy rain warning for the ranges of Westland District, valid until 4 AM on May 9, 2025.
- Orange heavy rain warning for the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers from 4 PM on May 8, 2025, to 1 AM on May 9, 2025.
- Yellow heavy rain watch for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers, as well as over Nelson (northwest of Motueka) and Richmond and Bryant Ranges, in place from 9 PM on May 8, 2025, to 7 AM on May 9, 2025.
Northland residents are also on alert, as MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for the region, effective from 3 AM to 5 PM on May 9, 2025. The forecast predicts that Northland could see between 80 mm to 120 mm of rain, with localized areas potentially receiving up to 150 mm. This comes on the heels of a record-breaking wet April, which led to significant flooding and landslips in the region. Civil Defence Northland is urging residents to prepare for the incoming weather, advising that an active front, accompanied by gale-force northeasterly winds, will move over the upper North Island.
“So, if you’re not already, take some time today to check you’re prepared for bad weather,” the organization advised on social media.
In addition to the warnings for Northland, the MetService has also issued several other alerts for the North Island, including:
- Orange heavy rain warning for the Bay of Plenty (east of Whakatāne) and Gisborne/Tairāwhiti (north of Ruatōria), valid from 3 PM on May 9, 2025, to 3 AM on May 10, 2025.
- Orange heavy rain warning for Tongariro National Park, expected from 8 AM to 8 PM on May 9, 2025.
- Orange heavy rain warning for Mount Taranaki/Taranaki Maunga, valid from midnight on May 8, 2025, to 3 PM on May 9, 2025.
- Yellow rain watch for Auckland, including Great Barrier Island, in effect from 6 AM to 6 PM on May 9, 2025.
- Yellow rain watch for the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty west of Whakatāne (including the Kaimai Range), Waikato, Waitomo, Taumarunui, and Taupō, valid from 8 AM to 8 PM on May 9, 2025.
- Yellow rain watch for areas north of Taranaki, from midnight on May 8, 2025, to 6 PM on May 9, 2025.
Despite the unsettled weather forecast for the end of the week, conditions are expected to improve over the weekend. Fine and mild weather is anticipated across much of the country, making Mother's Day on May 11, 2025, likely to be settled and sunny for most regions, although some areas may still experience morning cloud or fog.
MetService forecaster Kgolofelo Dube emphasizes the importance of staying informed and following official guidance, especially in areas currently under weather watches or warnings. “With adverse weather expected, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and prepared,” he noted.
As New Zealand gears up for this bout of severe weather, officials are urging the public to take the necessary precautions. Whether it’s securing properties, preparing emergency kits, or simply staying updated with the latest forecasts, being proactive can make all the difference in ensuring safety during these challenging conditions.
In summary, New Zealand's weather is set to take a turn for the worse as heavy rain and strong winds sweep across the country, particularly affecting the Bay of Plenty and Northland. With multiple weather warnings in place, residents are encouraged to prepare and stay safe as they navigate the stormy conditions ahead.
