UPDATE: Tornado among severe thunderstorms
UPDATE:
-A tornado has left two people injured
-It ripped roofs of buildings and scattered debris through the air
-Power has been cut to more than a thousand homes throughout the city
Click here for advice on staying safe in a storm.
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MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Christchurch.
Thunderstorms this afternoon and evening are expected to bring heavy rain and hail to some places. There is also a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms developing, which could produce hail greater than 20mm in diameter. There have also been reports of a tornado.
Large hail can cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses and vehicles, as well as make driving conditions hazardous.
This watch will be updated by 8:00pm this evening. Keep up to date here.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15% ... It is complicated
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
Fight back for Fairness - ACT is the most destructive party when it comes to workers' rights.
This Sunday, ACT Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, David Seymour, will deliver his "State of the Nation" address in Christchurch.
From New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi
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