Red wind warning and widespread severe weather alerts issued as Cyclone Vaianu approaches North Island, New Zealand

Cyclone Vaianu is forecast to move south across New Zealand’s North Island on Sunday, April 12, 2026, bringing a multi-hazard threat, including damaging winds up to 140 km/h (87 mph), heavy rainfall, and coastal inundation risk. A Red Strong Wind Warning is in force for the Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island, with widespread Orange warnings and watches covering much of the North Island and upper South Island. Significant disruption to transport, power supply, and communities is expected. Source