Western Bay of Plenty prepares for Cyclone Vaianu

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is stepping up preparations as Cyclone Vaianu is forecast to impact New Zealand over the weekend.

Council’s Emergency Management Controller, Peter Watson, says the forecast signals serious impacts if the cyclone tracks over or close to the District, and people should be preparing now.

“This system is forecast to bring very heavy rain, damaging winds and dangerous coastal conditions.

“If Cyclone Vaianu passes over our District, there will be flooding in some areas, along with a high likelihood of power outages, downed trees, slips and road closures.”

Forecasts show the Western Bay of Plenty facing extreme coastal swells of 7 metres plus at Waihī Beach and Pukehina, damaging winds, intense rainfall on already saturated land, and coastal inundation, particularly around high tide.

“While the system is expected to be fastmoving, it is forecast to bring a short but potentially devastating burst of weather, which is exactly why we are urging people not to wait and see, but to prepare now,” explains Peter.

Ahead of Cyclone Vaianu arriving Council teams are already active across the District.

“Our teams are checking known trouble spots, monitoring waterways, reviewing stormwater and roading networks, and staying in close contact with partner agencies so we are ready to respond,” says Peter.

Council will be activating its Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate response and support if conditions escalate.

“We’re also working closely with Emergency Management Bay of Plenty and other agencies, and if this develops into a wider event, we’ll align with them to ensure a strong, coordinated response for our communities.”

Peter says it’s important people listen to national guidance and take this weather system seriously and act now, rather than waiting to see what happens.

Coastal communities urged to plan ahead

Residents in coastal locations, particularly Waihī Beach, Pukehina and Maketū, are encouraged to carefully consider their plans for the weekend.

“If you live right along the coastline and don’t need to be there, it may be safer to make alternative arrangements with friends or whānau,” says Peter.

He is also urging people to stay well clear of beaches and coastal areas.

“Conditions will be dangerous, with large swells and unpredictable waves. This is not the time to go to the beach to watch or film what’s happening.”

Residents are encouraged to:

• Secure or bring inside loose outdoor items such as trampolines, furniture and bins
• Prepare sandbags if their property has previously experienced flooding
• Charge phones and devices and plan for possible power outages
• Be aware of landslide risks, particularly near steep slopes or previously affected areas
• Avoid unnecessary travel and never drive or move through floodwater
• If you live in a coastal area, particularly close to the shoreline, consider whether it is safer to make alternative accommodation arrangements with friends or whānau for the weekend if you do not need to be there

Given the amount of rain the District has experienced in recent weeks, there is an increased risk of slips and ground movement, including in areas previously affected. This risk can remain even after rainfall eases.

“If you feel unsafe, don’t wait - move early to evacuate,” says Peter.

“Take pets and essential items like medication with you. If you notice water levels rising, move to higher ground and stay well clear of floodwater.”

People are also encouraged to check in on neighbours, friends and whānau.

“We know it has been a challenging start to 2026, with several weather events already affecting our District, and that hearing about another system can feel unsettling for many.

“Sometimes a simple call or message to check in on people can make a big difference, especially during uncertain times.”

Any issues such as slips, downed trees and power lines, flooding or blocked drains can be reported to Council on 0800 926 732 or via the Antenno app.

For updates and information, visit Council’s Cyclone Vaianu Weather Event Hub or follow Council’s Facebook page and Antenno for updates.