National State of Emergency
Regional updates for February 15th, see the live Stuff updates.
14th February - 10:45am Update: National State of Emergency
Minister for Emergency Management, Kieran McAnulty, has confirmed a National State of Emergency this morning due to the widespread damage across the country due to Cyclone Gabrielle.
While many regions have already declared a local state of emergency, a National State of Emergency gives the National Controller legal authority to apply resources across the country in support of a national level response.
Here's what you need to know:
- Heavy rain red warnings are in place for Northland and Hawke's Bay, with red strong wind warnings also for Northland, Coromandel and Taranaki. Check all weather warnings on the MetService website.
- States of emergency have been declared in Northland, Auckland, Tairāwhiti, Ōpōtiki, Thames-Coromandel District, Waikato District, Hauraki District, Whakatāne District, Bay of Plenty, Napier and Hastings.
- There has been a landslide in Murawai with one firefighter missing.
- Gisborne is feared cut off and the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. Residents are to take note of the Welfare Centres for Gisborne and Coromandel.
- A number of road closures are in place across the North Island. View these on the Waka Kotahi NZTA website.
- Fire and Emergency is urging people to only call 111 if life or safety is at risk after a surge in calls.
- In Auckland there are 27 shelters and civil defence centres where people can go in an emergency.
Stuff are posting live updates and have shared what you need in your 3-day emergency kit. Stay up to date with Civil Defence updates and track the storm here.
2pm Update for Hawke's Bay:
Multiple evacuations needed in Puketapu, Esk Valley, Rissington, Omahu, Waiohiki, Jervoistown and Meeanee and Waipawa.
Many remain trapped in cars and houses. Several bridges have been taken out with access between Hastings and Napier now cutoff. More than 20,000 people are without power and cellphone communication in and out of the region is patchy.
Omahu residents needing shelter can go to Hastings Sports' Centre. Taradale residents can head to St Joseph's Māori Girls' School.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.9% Second half of November
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44.6% 1st December
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17% A week before Christmas
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32.3% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Message from Cancer Society
Message from Cancer Society National Office
I hope you’re doing well. With summer here, I thought now would be a good time to get in touch. My name is Hazel and I am the National Advisor for SunSmart with the Cancer Society.
Did you know that Aotearoa New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world? In fact, over 90,000 skin cancers are diagnosed every year. UV radiation, even on overcast days, can damage our skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. So, I wanted to remind everyone to be SunSmart – it’s so easy!
Remember to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap. I am sure you have heard of it, here’s the details:
Slip on clothing with good UV radiation protection - preferably long sleeves, and fabrics with darker colours and tighter weaves. Also, Slip into shade - particularly between 10am and 4pm when UV radiation is strongest.
Slop on broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Be sure to apply generously to all exposed skin and really every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, ears, and neck.
Wrap on UV-protective sunglasses to protect your eyes from damage. Remember, not all sunglasses protect from UV radiation.
Know the UV Index:
The UV Index helps us understand how strong the sun’s UV radiation is on any given day. When the UV Index is 3 or above, we need to be SunSmart. Check out the UVNZ app for more information.
Check your skin:
Regularly check your skin for any new moles, spots, or changes – early detection is key to catching skin cancer early. If you notice any unusual changes, see your doctor.
By making these simple changes to our daily routine we can help protect ourselves, and those we care about, from the harmful effects of UV radiation. For more information, tips, and resources, please visit the SunSmart website.
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