Key Takeaways
- The North Island and top of the South Island are under orange heavy rain and strong wind warnings for the final few days of 2025
- Over 500 properties across southern Auckland and northern Waikato are without power due to winds damaging equipment and blowing trees and branches over onto powerlines
- Tauranga City Council has cancelled all five of its community celebrations for New Year’s Eve due to forecast adverse weather
- MetService has issued heavy rain warnings and strong wind warnings for various regions, including the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, and Hawke’s Bay
- The driest place to ring in the New Year is expected to be the far south of the country, while the rainiest is western central New Zealand
Introduction to the Weather Situation
The year 2025 is set to end with a bang as an active low-pressure system crosses the country, bringing with it a mix of wind, rain, thunderstorms, and cooler temperatures. The North Island and top of the South Island are under orange heavy rain and strong wind warnings, which are expected to disrupt many Kiwis’ summer plans. Fire and Emergency NZ has responded to over 100 callouts across the upper North Island, including downed trees and roofs lifting. All lanes on the Auckland Harbour Bridge remain open after being temporarily closed earlier, but motorists are advised to expect delays and obey all speed restrictions and signs.
Weather Warnings and Watches
MetService has issued a range of weather warnings and watches for various regions. Heavy rain warnings are in place for the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne/Tairāwhiti, and Hawke’s Bay, with some regions expected to receive over 40mm of rain. Strong wind warnings are also in place for the Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, and Taranaki, with gusts expected to reach up to 100km/h. Heavy rain watches have been issued for the Bay of Plenty west of Rotorua, the Tararua District, and Wairarapa, while strong wind watches are in place for Auckland and Wellington.
Impact on Power and New Year’s Eve Celebrations
The bad weather has already had a significant impact on power supplies, with over 500 properties across southern Auckland and northern Waikato without power. Counties Energy has advised that all available crews are working to restore power, but the process is expected to take some time due to the scale of the damage. Tauranga City Council has cancelled all five of its community celebrations for New Year’s Eve due to forecast adverse weather, and residents are advised to make alternative plans for dinner and to stay with friends and family if possible.
MetService Advice
MetService meteorologist Katie Lyons has advised that while there is plenty to keep an eye on, there are likely to be breaks in the weather for some parts of the country. She has warned that the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, and Gisborne/Tairāwhiti are currently receiving the most intense and persistent deluge, and that heavy rain warnings are expected to continue through until Tuesday for some regions. Lyons has also advised that winds are expected to be strongest in exposed areas, and that high-sided vehicles such as campervans should be extra mindful.
Planning for New Year’s Eve
Lyons has suggested that it’s a good idea to have a plan B for New Year’s Eve celebrations, and to keep a keen eye on the forecast and radar. The driest place to ring in the New Year is expected to be the far south of the country, while the rainiest is western central New Zealand. Residents are advised to stay up to date with the latest weather warnings and watches, and to make alternative plans if necessary. With the bad weather expected to continue into the new year, it’s essential to prioritize safety and make plans accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the weather situation in New Zealand is expected to be severe for the final few days of 2025, with heavy rain and strong winds affecting many parts of the country. Residents are advised to stay up to date with the latest weather warnings and watches, and to make alternative plans if necessary. With the bad weather expected to continue into the new year, it’s essential to prioritize safety and make plans accordingly. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, Kiwis can ensure a safe and enjoyable start to the new year.