A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for the Bay of Plenty valid until 09:00 pm this evening (Easter Monday). This afternoon and evening there is a moderate risk of Severe thunderstorms for Rotorua, inland Bay of Plenty, the southwest corner of Gisborne, Taupo, inland Hawkes Bay and Taihape. These storms may be accompanied by localised downpours with rainfall rates of 25 to 40 mm/h and hail. 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. Click the button below for information on the Whakaari VAL being raised.

The Volcanic Activity Level (VAL) is not a prediction of future activity; it is a reflection of what the volcano has been doing lately. GNS Scientists have seen a recent increase in activity, and they have raised the VAL in recognition of this, rather than because of a specific eruption. There is no change in risk to the mainland or coastal communities, and our advice for water users is the same regardless of the current VAL: Please avoid the waters around Whakaari White Island at all times. Our recommended minimum distance is 2NM (roughly 3.5 km) from the island.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has just been issued for the Bay of Plenty, primarily affecting the eastern area northeast of Te Kaha. The watch is valid until: 12:00 pm (Midday) Sunday 20th Apr 2025.

GNS Science has raised the activity level on Whakaari to level 3 (minor volcanic eruption). That is because they are seeing evidence of some increased activity on the island, rather than one single event. There is no increased safety risk to the mainland or coastal communities, and our advice to water users remains unchanged: Keep away from the island at all times (regardless of the activity level). That means at least 2NM (approx. 3.5km).

Tropical Cyclone Tam: For Bay of Plenty West of Kawerau, heavy rain warning in place for 36hrs from 12:00pm (midday) Thursday to 12:00am (midnight) Saturday. Expect 120 to 180 mm of rain inland, and lesser amounts nearer the coast. Peak rates of 10 to 20 mm/h expected Thursday evening and Friday morning. Low chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.