Wairoa Mayor Craig Little is urging people to get prepared ahead of Cyclone Vaianu, which is tracking towards New Zealand’s North Island.

Wairoa has been placed under an Orange Strong Wind Warning for 16 hours from 10am Sunday until 2am Monday and a heavy rain watch for 16 hours from 2am-6pm Sunday.

Mayor Little said his advice is to plan for the worst but hope for the best. “We know Cyclone Vaianu is forecasted to bring damaging winds, heavy rain, and coastal swells. We can’t change the weather, but we can be prepared. Make sure you have enough food and water to last you a few days, especially if you live in an isolated area. Make sure you have your grab bags ready and don’t forget to include any medications you might need.

“This is also a good time to clean out the gutters, check for blockages, and make sure you have nothing lying around that could be blown away in strong winds.

“At the Council, our Civil Defence team is on standby and closely monitoring the situation. We receive regular weather updates and are in touch with other agencies to ensure we are as prepared as possible.

“I know people in our community still have weather-related anxiety. I urge you all to please work to be as prepared as possible, look after each other and stay safe.”

For regular updates, please check the Wairoa District Council website and Facebook.

10 April 2026

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