The risk of thunderstorms continues in the same areas moving into the afternoon, with a moderate risk of thunderstorms ranging from North Taranaki to northern Hawke’s Bay and up into Auckland and Northland. Photo / Michael CraigHowever, there is a low risk of severe thunderstorms in Auckland and Northland, with downpours of up to 40mm/h possible, and the same conditions could be expected across central parts of the North Island. The risk of thunderstorms is moderate to low across much of the top of the North Island this morning. A low risk of severe thunderstorms is expected across the North Island this afternoon. There is a minimal risk of thunderstorms from inland Tasman to the Southern Alps.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 02, 2026 17:33 UTC