Weather update from Regional Council Chair Sophie Siers

Published: 21 January 2026

I know that unsettled weather like this can feel worrying, especially given what many of the community has been through. I want to reassure you that we are closely watching conditions and have taken some precautionary actions.

At this stage, MetService has a heavy rain warning in place until 10am on Thursday. River levels are expected to rise in some catchments, though not to a significant level.

In the Kopuawhara and Nūhaka areas near Wairoa, there is the potential for higher rainfall — up to 175mm from Wednesday night through to Thursday midday. This could cause rivers to rise quickly, and we’re asking people in these areas to take extra care.

Surface flooding is also expected in some areas.

Our teams are on the ground and actively monitoring rivers, river mouths, and coastal conditions throughout the day and pump stations overnight.

We’ve taken precautionary actions, including positioning the Wairoa River mouth in its optimal location and having mobile pumps on standby in Haumoana if they’re needed.

While we take these precautions, we know situations like this remain uncertain. We encourage people to stay mindful of conditions in their own communities.

For those who would like to see rainfall and river levels in their areas, go to Flood Hub / Te Pae Waipuke | Hawke's Bay Regional Council

We will continue to provide updates through our Facebook page,  and won’t hesitate to take action if conditions change.

-Regional Council Chair Sophie Siers 

Photo: Channel cut through on the lowered crest of the Wairoa River bar.

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