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Emergency response underway
Page last updated
12:21pm Tuesday 21 April 2026
Emergency response underway

Emergency response - Severe weather

We are currently responding to a severe weather event affecting several districts across the region. Tararua District and Range are under a severe weather warning, with several watches also in effect across most other districts.

Next update eta: Later Tuesday morning
Situation update #16
12:15pm Tuesday 21 April 2026

APRIL RAINFALL EVENT – media release #7

Description of situation

  • Tararua District is still under a heavy rain warning until midnight Tuesday 21 April with expect rainfall of 70 to 90 mm to accumulate about the ranges and coastal hills, and lesser amounts elsewhere. 
  • Heavy rain watches for Manawatū, Rangitīkei and Whanganui have now…

What you should do 

High levels of heavy rain and potential for thunderstorms are forecast for the Tararua District and Tararua Range.
Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.
  • Put safety first.
  • Have your grab-bag ready.
    Do not enter floodwaters and avoid travel.
  • Act quickly to self-evacuate if required. 
  • Bring pets inside and move livestock to higher ground.
  • Know the signs of a landslide and prepare to evacuate the area if required.

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