Severe Thunderstorm Watch
Extreme caution is advised across New Zealand today as MetService has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch which remains in force for Nelson, Buller, Taranaki, Manawatu, Kapiti-Horowhenua, Wellington and Marlborough.
The National Emergency Management Agency has instructed residents leading up to the storms to:
- Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows;
- Avoid sheltering under trees, if outside;
- Get back to land, if outdoors on the water;
- Move cars under cover or away from trees;
- Secure any loose objects around your property;
- Check that drains and gutters are clear;
- Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving.
Once the storm is over, caution is needed outside or when driving as there may be fallen trees and power lines. It is best to avoid streams and drains as there is chance of being swept away in flash flooding.
You can check the official warnings in place on the MetService website.
Those in Taranaki can keep up to date at the Taranaki Emergency Management website.
Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
-
40.8% Yes
-
33.4% Maybe?
-
25.8% No
Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
Loading…