Cyclone Tam approaches New Zealand’s upper North Island

A severe storm, forecasted in the upper North Island of New Zealand, has been upgraded to a category one tropical cyclone named “Tam” by the Fiji Meteorological Services. According to NIWA weather, Cyclone Tam’s centre is expected to remain west of Cape Reinga and will bring significant weather to the upper North Island, including strong winds reaching up to 100 km/h and heavy rainfall.

Warnings and preventive measures have been issued for Northland, Auckland, and Aotea/Great Barrier Island. MetService, the national meteorological service of New Zealand, said it was possible that these measures and warnings could be upgraded as the storm gets closer.

Huge waves are forecast along the east coast from Northland to Gisborne, with swells of up to 6 metres. According to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, the Auckland Harbour Bridge may be closed or have speed limits reduced with little warning, and motorists are being urged to drive with caution.


An orange rain warning will start in Northland, with wind warnings for Northland, Auckland, and Great Barrier Island. MetService says there are high chances that these could be upgraded to red warnings.

Auckland Emergency Management general manager Adam Maggs urged residents to report fallen trees on the Auckland Council website for quick removal and to check emergency supplies in case of power outages.

He also advised checking the forecast before traveling, driving to the conditions, and watching for surface flooding and warned about strong winds potentially affecting loose items, trampolines, and outdoor furniture.

Waikato harbourmaster Hayden Coburn warned boaties about the forecast, expecting coastal swells of several meters and hazardous bar crossings. He advised altering or canceling boating plans if conditions are unsuitable. Boaties can check live video of the Tairua and Raglan bars online.

“As we head towards the long weekend, we're urging Aucklanders to do a few important things to prepare their homes and properties for some wild weather, and to factor the forecast into their weekend plans,” he said.