Weather: Coromandel residents, holidaymakers urged to find ‘safe, secure’ location ahead of massive storm – Newshub

Earlier on Wednesday, the forecaster issued a heavy rain warning that will last from 9am until 11pm on Wednesday for the Northland region. There are more warnings for the Coromandel for 24 hours from 3pm on Wednesday, Bay of Plenty west of Matata from 9pm on Wednesday to 3am on Friday, and Tasman northwest of Motueka from midnight on Wednesday to 6am on Friday.

There is also a strong wind warning for Auckland, including Great Barrier Island, from 9am on Wednesday to 3am on Thursday.

In an update on Wednesday, the Thames-Coromandel District Council said residents and holidaymakers should "err on the side of caution". People in the area are urged to make plans and act before heavy rain and increasing gale-force north-easterly winds arrive. There is also a strong wind watch in place for the area for 24 hours from 6pm on Wednesday.

"While there is still some uncertainty, five more days of north-easterly wind and rain on the Coromandel is likely to have a wide impact. So, we urge you to consider going to a safe, secure location, or even heading home today until the storm passes," said Civil Defence Controller Garry Towler.

"The accumulation of rain by Saturday could see surface flooding, slips, road closures and power issues, so it is worth hatching a plan today to ensure no one is stuck or isolated."

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Weather: Coromandel residents, holidaymakers urged to find 'safe, secure' location ahead of massive storm - Newshub