Severe weather warning for the region
MetService has issued a warning for heavy rain and severe gales for parts of northern and central New Zealand.
Watch for strong winds in Taupo, Taihape, Wanganui, Manawatu and Horowhenua Kapiti Coast. Taumarunui is also expected to receive strong winds.
Strong wind gusts could damage trees, power lines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles. Please make sure you plan your travel and drive to the conditions. Click here for more information.
Area: Bay Of Plenty including Rotorua
Valid: 23 hours from 4:00 pm Monday to 3:00 pm Tuesday
Forecast: Southeast gales are forecast to be severe at times gusting 120 km/h in exposed places until late Tuesday morning, especially in the east. Then from late morning until early Tuesday afternoon a period of severe northeast gales gusting 120 km/h in exposed places is forecast.
Area: Whanganui, Manawatu and Kapiti-Horowhenua
Valid: 16 hours from 2:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesday
Forecast: Southeast gales are forecast to be severe at times in exposed places with gusts of 120 km/h, especially in the lee of the ranges.
Source: MetService
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
-
40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
-
57.6% No, I enjoy it
-
1.9% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
Poll: How important is the ability to book a doctor’s appointment online?
Hi Neighbours
Here at The Doctors we would love to hear how you prefer to book your doctor’s appointments. With busy schedules, different people find different methods easier.
For some, online booking is very convenient, you can make an appointment anytime without needing to wait on the phone. Others still prefer calling the clinic and speaking to a real person, especially if they have specific questions about their visit.
Your feedback helps us understand what works best for our patients and how we can improve access to care.
-
40.4% I prefer booking online whenever possible
-
23.9% Online booking is helpful but not essential
-
32.5% I prefer calling the clinic
-
3.3% I didn’t know online booking was available
Loading…
