Severe thunderstorm watch - valid until 9pm Friday
The combination of another warm humid day and light winds are expected to produce thunderstorms about many parts of the North Island this afternoon and evening.
Between about 1pm and 9pm today, a few of the thunderstorms could be severe about inland North Island areas from Northland to Whanganui, Taihape and Hawkes Bay (including Auckland), and also affecting coastal parts of Gisborne and Hawkes Bay.
These thunderstorms are expected to produce localised downpours of 25-40 mm/hr (or more), hail 20mm diameter (or larger), and maybe wind gusts of 60-80km/hr.
Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.
Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.
Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!
Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.
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.
Considering Renting Out Your Holiday Home?
Hey Neighbours,
Are you thinking about renting out your holiday home, or want better results from your short-term rental?
As part of the Neighbourly community, Bachcare is offering you a FREE short-term rental appraisal to help discover your property’s earning potential.
With over 20 years of experience, Bachcare supports more than 1,500 homeowners nationwide with 24/7 guest management, local on-the-ground support, and professional cleaning services. We make hosting effortless while maximising your income.
Feel free to reach out to us if you want to find out more!
The Bachcare Team
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