A State of Local Emergency has been declared for the Waikato region, including Waikato district, for seven days as a precaution ahead of Cyclone Vaianu.
The declaration enables emergency services and councils to respond quickly to the severe weather expected across the North Island from later today.
Waikato District Mayor Aksel Bech says the decision is about acting early to keep communities safe. “This is a precautionary step, but an important one. A State of Local Emergency gives us the ability to act quickly including evacuating properties, closing roads, and coordinating support where it’s needed most,” Mayor Aksel says.
“We want people to take this seriously, be prepared, and follow official advice, but it’s important to know this does not mean everyone needs to evacuate.”
Cyclone Vaianu is expected to bring damaging winds, heavy rain, large swells on the east coast, and possible coastal inundation from late tonight and throughout Sunday.
Community-led centres are being activated across the district to support residents if needed. More details will be added to our Cyclone Vaianu webpage as available. Locations include:
- Hub Port Waikato (Community Hub, Sunset Beach)
- Kura Kaupapa o Puaha Waikato (29 Stack Road, Port Waikato)
- Te Kumi Paa (85 Te Kumi Road, Te Kohanga 2693)
- Mangatangi Marae (201 Mangatangi Road, Mangatangi 2473)
- Poihaakena Marae (216 Wainui Road, Raglan, 3297)
These centres provide a place for people to seek shelter and access support, particularly for those who cannot stay with friends or whaanau.
Precautionary evacuation underway in Port Waikato
As part of the emergency response, some residents in Port Waikato have been asked to evacuate their properties today. This is a precautionary measure to keep people safe while we continue to prepare for this severe weather event.
There are 36 properties including 10 cabins at Port Waikato Holiday Park in Sunset Beach.
Mayor Aksel says the decision has been made based on expert advice and known risks in the area.
“We do not take evacuation decisions lightly. This is based on geotechnical advice and weather forecasts indicating a real risk to life,” he says.
“There is an increased risk of land movement during heavy and prolonged rain. It can shift very suddenly, even if it looks stable.”
Advice from MetService indicates the Waikato region can expect severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, increasing the risk of slips and instability.
“Our priority is protecting people and their whaanau. Evacuating now, before conditions worsen, is the safest option,” Mayor Aksel says.
Residents who cannot stay with friends or family are encouraged to go to one of the community-led centres, where welfare support is available.
Waikato District Council is working closely with local mana whenua and partner agencies, including New Zealand Red Cross and New Zealand Police, to support affected residents.
This is the first evacuation in the Waikato district for this weather event. At this stage, there are no other evacuation orders in place, but the situation is being closely monitored.
Be prepared and stay informed
While the evacuation is currently limited to Port Waikato, all residents across the district are urged to be prepared.
“If you live in an area prone to flooding, slips, or coastal erosion, please stay alert and be ready to act,” Mayor Aksel says.
“Conditions can change quickly, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.”
Residents are encouraged to follow official Waikato District Council and Civil Defence channels for the latest information.
