Orange Heavy Rain Warning Issued for Northland, Auckland, and Great Barrier Island

Parts of Northland, Auckland and Great Barrier Island are under an orange heavy rain warning issued by MetService on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

The warning covers eastern Northland south of Kawakawa until midnight, eastern Auckland north of Whangaparāoa until 3pm, and Great Barrier Island until 2pm. MetService advises residents to clear drains and gutters and avoid low-lying areas due to the risk of surface flooding and slips.

Forecasters predict up to 150mm of rain in parts of Northland before midnight, while Auckland could receive up to 120mm in the 16 hours to 3pm, with thunderstorms possible. Streams and rivers may rise rapidly, increasing the risk of flooding and difficult driving conditions.

The Hibiscus Coast Highway at Waiwera has been closed after a large slip was reported just after 6.30am near Weranui Road. The NZ Transport Agency confirmed the non-toll road is closed from Hatfields Beach to the Puhoi interchange, with access limited to residents until further notice. Police reported six properties affected but no injuries.

Near the top of the Coromandel Peninsula, Port Jackson Road remains closed due to two slips and a downed tree, with rising waters making the road impassable. Emergency crews are waiting for water levels to recede before responding.

Fire and Emergency NZ responded to a large pine tree blocking the road between Waiwera and Hatfields Beach early Thursday morning, though This proves not yet confirmed whether the incident was weather-related.

MetService stated that a low-pressure system and associated trough are expected to bring heavy rain with potential for localised downpours to northern parts of the North Island until Friday night. The agency noted a low chance of the warning being upgraded to red.