https://www.ruapehudc.govt.nz/our-services/civil-defence-and-emergency-management/

Ruapehu Emergency Management, Ruapehu District Council, 59-63 Huia Street, Taumarunui (2026)

23/01/2026

WATCH & ACT - THUNDERSTORM ADVISORY 24 Jan 2026

G’Day whānau, you're on call roroa’s up early, slightly under-caffeinated, giving the sky a proper squiz to see what mischief it’s planning today.

Period: 0000 Hours today through to 2400 Hours (midnight) Sat 24

If the sky kicks off, we could see a quick dump of heavy rain (10–15 mm/h), small hail, and gusts around 100 km/h as shown on the charts enough to rearrange the backyard furniture.

Whānau, communities and visitors are urged to get ready for possible thunderstorms, heavy rain, flooding, slips and damaging winds as this weather rolls through and it may give other areas a decent nudge as well.

QUICK PREP (Iin case it gets feral):

- Stay alert to changing conditions

- Keep well clear of fallen power lines

- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains

- Charge phones, torches, and radios and find the batteries you “put somewhere safe”

- Secure loose gear outside (trampolines, bins, outdoor furniture — anything that wants to go on an OE)

- Clear gutters and drains if you can

- Check in on whānau and neighbours, especially the vulnerable

- If travelling, take it steady roads can turn slick quicker than a tui on polished timber]

- Keep up to date with the forecast and conditions at: https://www.metservice.com/national

- You can check out tips to prepare for severe weather at: https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/

- If you have to travel, check road conditions first with NZ Transport Agency at: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/

STAY INFORMED — Follow Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui and NZ Civil Defence on social media for the latest Civil Defence updates.

POWER OUTGAGES —The Lines Company call 0800 367 328 - Powerco call 0800 272 727 are asking you only call for emergencies such as reporting downed or damaged lines, sparks, arcing or loud bangs.

EMERGENCY HELP — If there’s immediate danger to life or you require assistance in floods and storms, don’t muck about get safe, take a breath, and CALL 111

NGĀ MIHI — Stay tuned, stay prepared, and keep the billy hand, better to be ready than caught out. REMO

23/01/2026

WATCH & ACT - THUNDERSTORM ADVISORY

Radios are up, billy’s boiling, and your on-call roroa’s doing laps like a sparrow on a hot tin roof.

Period: 1200 Hours (noon) to 2400 Hours (midnight) Fri, 23 January 2026
Period: 0000 Hours (00:00am) to 1200 Hours (noon) Sat 24 January 2026

Any storms could bring localised with brief heavy rain, small hail, and strong wind gusts of 100 km/h possible as shown on the charts.

Whānau and communities are urged to get ready for possible thunderstorms, heavy rain, flooding, slips and damaging winds as this weather rolls through and it may give other areas a decent nudge as well.

QUICK PREP (Iin case it gets feral):

- Stay alert to changing conditions

- Keep well clear of fallen power lines

- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains

- Charge phones, torches, and radios and find the batteries you “put somewhere safe”

- Secure loose gear outside (trampolines, bins, outdoor furniture — anything that wants to go on an OE)

- Clear gutters and drains if you can

- Check in on whānau and neighbours, especially the vulnerable

- If travelling, take it steady roads can turn slick quicker than a tui on polished timber]

- Keep up to date with the forecast and conditions at: https://www.metservice.com/national

- You can check out tips to prepare for severe weather at: https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/

- If you have to travel, check road conditions first with NZ Transport Agency at: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/

POWER OUTGAGES —The Lines Company call 0800 367 328 - Powerco call 0800 272 727 are asking you only call for emergencies such as reporting downed or damaged lines, sparks, arcing or loud bangs. If you are in danger, call 111

EMERGENCY HELP —If you require assistance in floods and storms, or in life-threatening situations, call 111

NGĀ MIHI — Stay connected, stay prepared and keep the kettle close. REMO

22/01/2026

Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the recent natural hazard events, particularly those who have lost loved ones, homes, and businesses across the rohe of Tairāwhiti and the Bay of Plenty.

We know all too well the devastation these events can bring, having experienced severe flooding, slips, and wildfires in our own isolated communities.

In times of uncertainty, connection and care matter. Checking in on friends, whānau, neighbours, and colleagues helps strengthen the sense of belonging that makes our communities resilient and compassionate.

To all those affected, please know you are in our thoughts during this difficult time.

We also stop and pause to acknowledge and thank the community members and emergency services whose actions demonstrated courage, kindness, and humanity when it mattered most.

Aroha nui and kia kaha, REMO

19/01/2026

A STORM IS COMING - ARE YOU PREPARED?

Radios are up, billy’s boiling, and our on call Roroa confirms the forecast later this week is looking like it’s had a rough night at the pub.

TROPICAL CYCLONE TRACK MAP — No tropical cyclone warnings at present. However, MetService is keeping a close eye on Tropical Low 14U, which is currently projected to make landfall as it tracks southeast toward NZ.

It will likely weaken to a tropical storm, but the potential still exists on Thursday for heavy rain and strong winds in many northern and central parts of the country.

PREPARDNESS — Todays a good day to check your 72-hour kit, get the devices charged, clear gutters and drains and secure anything loose (trampolines, bins, signs).

STAY INFORMED — People should keep an eye on the weather and have multiple ways of getting weather alerts, by following the MetService New Zealand , Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui and NZ Civil Defence

IN AN EMERGENCY — If there’s immediate danger to life or property, don’t muck around. Stop, take a breath, and CALL 111.

CIVIL DEFENCE — If things get wobbly, rumbly, or a bit feral out there, flick on the radio and tune in to 88 FM, 99.9 FM (Taumarunui), 99.6 FM (Taihape), 95.8 FM (Ohakune/Raetihi), 92.7 FM (Whakapapa), and 94.3 & 99.0 FM (Ruapehu).

Keep it tidy out there and check in on your whānau and neighbours if the weather starts throwing its weight around. REMO

14/01/2026

WATCH & ACT N° 1 - HEAVY RAIN AND SEVERE THUNDERSTORM'S THURSDAY 15 JANUARY 2026

Our on-call roroa has rolled out of his rack, checked the maps, poked the forecast, and yep, the hazards are hovering around like a seagull near hot chips, so stay alert and ready to move if needed.

HEAVY RAIN WATCH & ACT — A Heavy Rain Watch is in place for our district from 0800 Hours (8am) through to 2300 Hours (11pm) Thu, 15 Jan 2026.

Especially across the Central North Island including Taranaki Maunga, Waitomo, Taumarunui, Taupo and Tongariro National Park.

Expect periods of heavy rain, with thunderstorms and localised downpours possible. Totals may creep up toward a full Warning later on, so keep an eye on updates preferably from indoors, with dry socks and maybe a flat white, because you deserve nice things.

FLOODING — Given the above, expect ponding on roads, slips in steeper areas, rising creeks, and the odd paddock trying to become a lake. Drive to the conditions and don’t go exploring through floodwater

THUNDERSTORMS — A Thunderstorm Advisory is in place until 2400 Hours (Midnight) Thu, 15 Jan 2026, as per the chart.

Thunderstorms are likely to affect parts of the North Island during the afternoon and evening. These storms may bring localised heavy rain, generally 10–25 mm/h, with isolated downpours of 25–40 mm/h, along with gusty winds.

HAZARD - These thunderstorms may bring very heavy rain, which can cause surface and/or flash flooding in streams, gullies and urban areas and turn driving into an unwanted extreme sport.

IMPACT - Possible damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures. Driving may be difficult or downright unpleasant, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

- Stay alert to changing conditions

- Keep well clear of fallen power lines

- Be alert for fallen trees or debris on roads

- Do not walk, cycle, or drive through floodwaters

- Heavy rain can cause flash flooding about streams, gullies, and may also lead to slips

- Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain

- Charge the phone, bring the loose stuff in, and let the storm do its thing from a safe distance.

- Keep up to date with the forecast and conditions at: https://www.metservice.com/national

- You can check out tips to prepare for severe weather at: https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/

- If you have to travel, check road conditions first with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency at: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/

POWER OUTGAGES —The Lines Company call 0800 367 328 - Powerco call 0800 272 727 are asking you only call for emergencies such as reporting downed or damaged lines, sparks, arcing or loud bangs. If you are in danger, call 111

IN AN EMERGENCY — If there’s an immediate risk to life or property, this is not the time for messages or maybes. Stop, take a breath, and CALL 111

PREPARDNESS — Take five minutes to get your gear and your plan sorted better done in slippers with a cuppa than in gumboots with chaos.

STAY INFORMED — Keep yourself in the loop by downloading Antenno for local alerts and updates, and following Civil Defence social media Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui and NZ Civil Defence

CIVIL DEFENCE — If things get wobbly, rumbly, or a bit feral out there, flick on the radio and tune in to 88 FM, 99.9 FM (Taumarunui), 99.6 FM (Taihape), 95.8 FM (Ohakune/Raetihi), 92.7 FM (Whakapapa), and 94.3 & 99.0 FM (Ruapehu).

NGĀ MIHI — As we sign off, a big thank you for keeping an eye on things and helping our communities stay steady when the weather gets a bit feral. REMO

14/01/2026

HEAVY RAIN AND THUNDERSTORMS — WATCH & ACT N° 1

Our favourite roroa has been tunnelling through tonight’s chaos and has emerged with intel, covered in dirt, but enthusiastic.

HEAVY RAIN WATCH & ACT – A Heavy Rain Watch is in place for our district this afternoon and evening, especially across the Central North Island: Taranaki, Waitomo, Taumarunui, Taupo and Tongariro National Park

PERIOD: From 0200 Hours (2am) Thu, 15 Jan - 0100 Hours (1am) Fri, 16 Jan 2026

WHAT TO EXPECT:

💧 Periods of heavy rain—the kind that makes you question all your life choices, starting with “Did I clean the gutters?”

🪣 Rainfall totals may sneak up toward warning levels.

⛈️ Thunderstorms could bring localised heavy rain and small hail, plus a low chance of SEVERE thunderstorms with downpours of 25–40 mm/h

There’s also a moderate chance this Watch upgrades to a full Warning later on, so keep an eye out…preferably from indoors, with dry socks and maybe a flat white, because you deserve nice things.

THUNDERSTORM WATCH & ACT — A Thunderstorm Advisory is in place from 2400 Hours (Midnight) Wed, 14 Jan to 2400 Hours (Midnight) Thu, 15 Jan 2026 as per the charts.

Thunderstorms are likely to affect parts of the North Island during the afternoon and evening, as indicated on the forecast chart.

These storms may bring localised heavy rain, generally in the 10–25 mm/h range, with isolated downpours of 25–40 mm/h, along with gusty winds.

HAZARD - These thunderstorms may bring very heavy rain, which can cause surface and/or flash flooding in streams, gullies and urban areas and turn driving into an unwanted extreme sport.

IMPACT - Possible damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures. Driving may be difficult or downright unpleasant, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

- Stay alert to changing conditions
- Keep well clear of fallen power lines
- Be alert for fallen trees or debris on roads
- Do not walk, cycle, or drive through floodwaters
- Heavy rain can cause flash flooding about streams, gullies, and may also lead to slips
- Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain
- Keep up to date with the forecast and conditions at: https://www.metservice.com/national
- You can check out tips to prepare for severe weather at: https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/
- If you have to travel, check road conditions first with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency at: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/

POWER OUTGAGES —The Lines Company call 0800 367 328 - Powerco call 0800 272 727 are asking you only call for emergencies such as reporting downed or damaged lines, sparks, arcing or loud bangs. If you are in danger, call 111

IN AN EMERGENCY — If there’s an immediate risk to life or property, this is not the time for messages or maybes. Stop, take a breath, and CALL 111

PREPARDNESS — Take five minutes today to check the 72-hour kit and have the “where do we go?” chat with the whānau, much easier now than in the rain at 2 a.m.

STAY INFORMED — Keep yourself in the loop by downloading Antenno for local alerts and updates, and following Civil Defence social media Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui and NZ Civil Defence

CIVIL DEFENCE — If things get wobbly, rumbly, or a bit feral out there, flick on the radio and tune in to 88 FM, 99.9 FM (Taumarunui), 99.6 FM (Taihape), 95.8 FM (Ohakune/Raetihi), 92.7 FM (Whakapapa), and 94.3 & 99.0 FM (Ruapehu).

NGĀ MIHI / THANKS —Take it easy, check on your whānau and mates. REMO

10/01/2026

CHECK BEFORE YOU LIGHT A FIRE - FIRE DANGER

It’s shaping up to be hot and windy with very low humidity, the kind of conditions where wildfires can start easily and run hard.

Please take it easy out there, avoid anything that could spark a fire, and check before you light via www.checkitsalright.nz

Be informed and prepared on days of extreme fire danger. Visit www.fireweather.niwa.co.nz/region/Manawatu-Whanganui updates.

As we sign off, our thoughts remain with our Kiwi and Australian fire crews, on the fire line digging in, holding ground, and doing the hard whakarīrā for their whānau, and the communities they’re protecting. Stay safe out there. REMO

07/01/2026

GET READY - EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Ruapehu's susceptibility to severe storms, earthquakes, and floods are significant reasons for residents and businesses should:

- know the hazards that could impact the community,
- be informed when emergencies happen,
- make a plan to respond to those hazards,
- build a kit to sustain themselves for at least 72 hours after a disaster, and
- get involved with their community to respond together.

Get Ready https://getready.govt.nz/ page to learn about basic preparedness and the Emergency Resources page to view and download resources.

IN AN EMERGENCY — If there’s an immediate risk to life or property, stop, take a breath, and CALL 111

PREPARDNESS — Get Ready, give your 72-hour kit a quick once-over and remind your whanau where you would go if you needed to evacuate.

PUBLIC ADVICE — Stay informed through the Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui and NZ Civil Defence pages, if conditions change, updates will be issued promptly.

CIVIL DEFENCE RADIO — If things get wobbly, rumbly, or a bit feral out there, tune your radio to 88 FM, 99.9 FM (Taumarunui), 99.6 FM (Taihape), 95.8 FM (Ohakune / Raetihi), 92.7 FM (Whakapapa) and 94.3 & 99.0 FM across Ruapehu.

Ngā mihi nui — Cheers for staying connected, informed, and ready if things kick off - REMO

07/01/2026

NZTA SCHEDULED ROAD WORK NOTICE – 07 Jan 2026

SH43 TAUMARUNUI, MANAWATŪ-WHANGANUI – BRIDGE REPAIR

Plan ahead as the Pongahuru Stream Bridge will be CLOSING to heavy vehicles and STOP/GOs will be in place for light vehicles over the following days:

• 0700 Hours (7am) Wed 14 to 1800 Hours (6pm) Sat 17 January
• 0700 Hours (7am) Thu 22 to 1800 Hours (6pm) Sun 25 January

Northbound detour for all agricultural and heavy vehicles via SH4, Ohura Rd, and Mangaparo Rd. Reverse for southbound.

Light vehicles should expect DELAYS when travelling through the area.

On the first day of each closure concrete will be poured on one lane of the bridge. The following days are required for the concrete to set.

Please note that these works are weather- and site-dependent and may be amended or rescheduled. Any changes will be communicated via an update in the comments.

Read more about these works here:

https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic-bulletins/new-concrete-deck-on-the-way-for-pongahuru-stream-bridge-sh43?

For the latest highway information or to report issues impacting travel (open 24 hours every day) call 0800 44 44 49.

02/01/2026

NO WAY, MORE THUNDERSTORMS — WATCH & ACT

Our on-call roroa has poked its head out of the radio shack, had a proper squiz, and returned to confirm that there is a Thunderstorm Advisory is in place from 1200 Hours (noon) to 2400 Hours (midnight) 03 January 2026.

Thunderstorms are likely to affect parts of the North Island during the afternoon and evening, expected to remain on moderate risk overnight as indicated on the forecast chart.

These SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS may bring localised heavy rain, generally in the 10–25 mm/h range, with isolated downpours of 25–40 mm/h, along with hail of 10 to 20 mm in diameter

Ruapehu Emergency Management advises that people should:

- Stay alert to changing conditions
- Unplug computers and appliances
- Secure loose items around your house
- Charge your cellphone prior to the storm
- Be alert for fallen trees or debris on roads
- Do not walk, cycle, or drive through floodwaters
- Heavy rain can cause flash flooding about streams, gullies, and may also lead to slips
- Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.

- Keep up to date with the forecast and conditions at:
https://www.metservice.com/national

- You can check out tips to prepare for severe weather at: https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/

- If you have to travel, check road conditions first with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency at: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/

POWER OUTGAGES — Report fallen power lines, sparks, arcing or outages to either The Lines Company (0800 367 328) or Powerco (0800 272 727) as shown on your power bill.

EMERGENCY HELP — For emergency help in floods and storms, Call the Emergency Services on 111

STAY INFORMED — For updates, alerts, watches, and warnings, follow the Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui page and NZ Civil Defence page because being informed beats being surprised.

CIVIL DEFENCE RADIO — When things get wobbly, rumbly, or downright stormy, twist the dial to 88 FM, 99.9 FM (Taumarunui), 99.6 FM (Taihape), 95.8 FM (Ohakune / Raetihi), 92.7 FM (Whakapapa) and 94.3 & 99.0 FM across Ruapehu.

NGĀ MIHI NUI — Take it easy, check on your whānau and mates, and remember: a bit of laughter goes a long way. REMO

01/01/2026

MORE THUNDERSTORMS — WATCH & ACT N° 1

A Thunderstorm Advisory is in place from 1200 Hours (noon) to 2400 Hours (midnight) 02 January 2026.

Thunderstorms are likely to affect parts of the North Island during the afternoon and evening, as indicated on the forecast chart.

These storms may bring localised heavy rain, generally in the 10–25 mm/h range, with isolated downpours of 25–40 mm/h, along with gusty winds.

Ruapehu Emergency Management advises that people should:

- Stay alert to changing conditions
- Unplug computers and appliances
- Secure loose items around your house
- Charge your cellphone prior to the storm
- Be alert for fallen trees or debris on roads
- Do not walk, cycle, or drive through floodwaters
- Heavy rain can cause flash flooding about streams, gullies, and may also lead to slips
- Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.

- Keep up to date with the forecast and conditions at:
https://www.metservice.com/national

- You can check out tips to prepare for severe weather at: https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/storms/

- If you have to travel, check road conditions first with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency at: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/

POWER — Report fallen power lines, sparks, arcing or outages to either The Lines Company (0800 367 328) or Powerco (0800 272 727) as shown on your power bill.

EMERGENCY HELP — For emergency help in floods and storms, Call the Emergency Services on 111

STAY INFORMED — For updates, alerts, watches, and warnings, follow the Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui page and NZ Civil Defence page because being informed beats being surprised.

CIVIL DEFENCE RADIO — When things get wobbly, rumbly, or downright stormy, twist the dial to 88 FM, 99.9 FM (Taumarunui), 99.6 FM (Taihape), 95.8 FM (Ohakune / Raetihi), 92.7 FM (Whakapapa) and 94.3 & 99.0 FM across Ruapehu.

NGĀ MIHI NUI — Wishing you a calm year, full batteries (both phone and people), smooth roads, and plenty of good news with any surprises kept small, brief, and preferably after Trunk House coffee.

31/12/2025

TOP PRIORITY – FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

Cancellation of Detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning – Ruapehu

Issued at 1930 Hours (7:30 pm). 31 December 2026

The previously warned severe thunderstorms affecting Ruapehu have weakened and moved away. Detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are no longer affecting Ruapehu or surrounding areas.

This warning is now cancelled.

No further Thunderstorm Warnings will be issued for this event.

A more general thunderstorm watch remains current for parts of the North Island. Other warnings may be current

Ruapehu Emergency Management advises the public to:

• Keep well clear of fallen power lines.
• Stay away from creeks and stormwater drains.
• Do not walk, cycle, or drive through floodwaters.
• Be alert for fallen trees or debris on roads.

If there’s an immediate risk to life or property, or if things have gone completely pear-shaped, stop, breathe, and CALL 111

REPORTING POWER OUTGAGES — Lines companies are asking you only call for emergencies such as reporting downed or damaged lines, sparks, arcing or loud bangs.

- Lines Company Outage Information – Call 0800 367 328 to report Faults, Outages or Emergencies, otherwise email [email protected] or private message page.

- Powerco Outage Information – Call 0800 27 27 27 to report Faults, Outages or Emergencies

STAY INFORMED — For updates, alerts, watches, and warnings, follow the Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui page and MetService New Zealand website because being informed beats being surprised.

CIVIL DEFENCE RADIO — When things get wobbly, rumbly, or downright stormy, twist the dial to 88 FM, 99.9 FM (Taumarunui), 99.6 FM (Taihape), 95.8 FM (Ohakune / Raetihi), 92.7 FM (Whakapapa) and 94.3 & 99.0 FM across Ruapehu.

Happy New Year - Hope you’re seeing it in with good mates, questionable dance moves, and choices you can mostly stand by tomorrow.

Be kind to yourself, look after each other, and let 2026 do its thing - REMO

Ruapehu Emergency Management

23/01/2026

23/01/2026

22/01/2026

19/01/2026

14/01/2026

14/01/2026

10/01/2026

07/01/2026

07/01/2026

02/01/2026

01/01/2026

31/12/2025

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