New Zealand's North Island Braces for More Rain Amid Widespread Flooding and Severe Warnings
February 15, 2026 – New Zealand's North Island is once again facing the brunt of severe weather, with the national weather bureau, MetService, issuing urgent warnings for heavy rain and strong winds expected to lash the region late Sunday and into Monday. This latest forecast comes as the island grapples with the aftermath of widespread flooding that has already caused significant disruption, including power outages, collapsed roads, and mandatory home evacuations. Tragically, a man lost his life after his vehicle was submerged in floodwaters on a highway on Saturday, underscoring the perilous conditions.
MetService Issues Red Warnings Amid Deepening Low-Pressure System
MetService has described the situation as a "threat to life from dangerous river conditions, significant flooding and slips." A deepening low-pressure system situated east of the North Island is the primary driver of the severe weather, bringing with it torrential rainfall and powerful gale-force winds. The bureau warns that the worst of the weather is anticipated to hit later on Sunday evening, local time, with conditions expected to ease gradually throughout Monday.
Red Heavy Rain Warning in Effect
A Red Heavy Rain Warning, the highest alert level issued by MetService, has been activated for the Manawatū, Rangitīkei, and Ruapehu Districts, specifically targeting areas north of Feilding and east of State Highway One. This signifies an extreme risk of intense rainfall and potential for severe flooding.
Broader Warnings and Watches Issued
Beyond the Red Warning, numerous other weather warnings and watches have been issued across the eastern and lower parts of the North Island, as well as for the northern tip of the South Island. These alerts highlight the extensive area impacted by the adverse weather system.
Coastal Dangers and Flight Cancellations
Coastal communities are also on high alert. MetService has issued a warning for potentially dangerous swells of up to 7 metres, affecting the coast from Cape Palliser to Turakirae Head. This warning is expected to remain in place until midday Monday. In response to the hazardous conditions, Air New Zealand has cancelled all regional flights to and from Wellington for the remainder of Sunday, citing the prevailing high winds that make air travel unsafe.
Local States of Emergency Declared
In response to the escalating crisis, several local councils have declared states of emergency. The Manawatū, Rangitīkei, Tararua, Waipā, and Ōtorohanga districts in the North Island are now under official states of emergency. These declarations allow for greater coordination of emergency services and resource allocation.
Council Advisories and Preparations
The Ōtorohanga District Council, via its Facebook page, has stated that geotechnical teams have been working through the night to assess landslips and the structural integrity of roads in the affected area. Residents in the Manawatū District have been advised by their council to take the state of emergency declaration seriously. They are urged to ensure their electronic devices are fully charged and to have a battery-powered radio readily available to receive critical news updates and official information.
Projected Rainfall and Power Outages
MetService forecasts indicate that some areas could experience rainfall totals ranging from 140 to 180 millimetres across Sunday and Monday. This significant volume of rain is expected to exacerbate existing floodwaters and contribute to further landslips. As of Sunday morning, over 6,780 properties across the North Island remained without power, according to energy company Powerco, highlighting the widespread impact on essential services.
A Tragic Loss and Recent History of Extreme Weather
The death of the man in his vehicle serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by the current weather event. Authorities have also reported that approximately 80 people have been evacuated to emergency centres to ensure their safety. Social media has been abuzz with images depicting submerged semi-rural neighbourhoods and sections of road that have been washed away by the receding floodwaters. This event follows a devastating landslide in January at Mount Maunganui on the North Island's east coast, where heavy rains triggered a mudslide that claimed the lives of six people, tragically impacting families on holiday.
Authorities are urging all residents in affected areas to stay informed, heed official warnings, and prioritise their safety. The situation remains dynamic, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
