Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle News 10 Feb 2023

Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle: Stay safe, be prepared, and keep up to date

Tēnā koutou katoa

Our heartfelt aroha remains with the people impacted by flooding recently, and we know news more severe weather is on the way will be tough to hear. Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle is tracking towards Aotearoa New Zealand and states of local emergency have been extended in Auckland and the Coromandel. We want to assure you that the safety of our tauira, staff and communities remain our priority.

MetService is expecting a significant weather event – Cyclone Gabrielle – to bring strong wind, heavy rain, and large swell from this Sunday 12 February onwards. Please do what you feel is best for you to keep yourself and your whānau safe – whether that’s working from home or speaking with your manager about other steps you can take.

Please be prepared for disruption and the situation to quickly change. If your life, health, or home is in danger, always call 111 as soon as you can. Visit www.GetReady.govt.nz for information on how to prepare for a storm. Talk with your whānau and make a plan, know where your nearest evacuation centre is, clear gutters and drains, secure loose structures like trampolines or heavy outdoor objects, secure boat moorings, and look after pets and livestock.

Local updates for Auckland are being provided at www.aucklandemergencymanagement.org.nz and on the Auckland Emergency Management Facebook page.

Please keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts. MetService advises the severity and areas affected will be highly dependent on the track of Cyclone Gabrielle. We advise you to regularly check for the latest information and weather alert updates on the MetService website or app. Currently, the cyclone is expected to first impact northern New Zealand from Sunday, before moving to central parts of the country early next week.

As of 11:30 am today:

• Heavy Rain Watches are in place for: Northland, Auckland including Great Barrier Island, the Coromandel Peninsula, Gisborne, and Hawke’s Bay.
• Strong Wind Watches are in place for: Northland, Auckland including Great Barrier Island, and the Coromandel Peninsula.

If you have pātai or concerns, please always reach out. We are here to support you.

Ngā mihi

Professor Wiremu Doherty

Chief Executive Officer

Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi