States Of Emergency Declared Across New Zealand’s North Island As Cyclone Vaianu Approaches

Multiple states of emergency have been declared across New Zealand’s North Island as Cyclone Vaianu approaches, bringing warnings of damaging winds and heavy rain. The weather system is expected to impact the region on April 11 and April 12, 2026, with the entire North Island currently under some level of weather warning.

MetService has issued rare red strong wind warnings for the Bay of Plenty, the Coromandel Peninsula, and Great Barrier Island. In these specific areas, the agency warned of a possible threat to life resulting from potential flooding, landslips, and falling trees.

The system is expected to produce damaging winds reaching speeds of up to 130kmh. While Cyclone Vaianu was originally classified as a tropical cyclone, it has since been reclassified as a subtropical system, though authorities maintain it remains an extremely dangerous weather event.

States of Emergency and Evacuations

States of emergency have been declared for several regions, including Northland, Hawke’s Bay, the Western Bay of Plenty, and Waikato, which includes the Coromandel.

On the evening of April 11, 2026, evacuation orders were issued for properties located along Thornton and Ōhope within the Whakatāne District. Residents of some beachfront properties in Hastings have been ordered to evacuate.

The subtropical system is projected to make landfall on the northeast coast of the North Island.

Regional Disruptions and Preparations

The approach of the storm has led to significant disruptions and urgent preparations across the island. In Auckland, queues have formed at supermarkets as residents stock up on supplies ahead of the weather event.

The sporting calendar has also been affected, with Supercars canceling the racing scheduled for Sunday at the Taupō Super440 due to the projected impact of Cyclone Vaianu.

Authorities are urging residents to secure loose items and prepare their homes before the storm arrives over the weekend.