Civil Defence advice for Whanganui

Published on 05 March 2021

Lates update - Issued Friday, 5 March 2:17pm

GNS Science has advised that the largest waves have now passed, and therefore the threat level is now downgraded to a Beach and Marine threat for all areas which were previously under Land and Marine threat.

All people who evacuated can now return.

The advice remains, for all areas under Beach and Marine threat, to stay off beach and shore areas.

Due to this morning’s large earthquakes off the Kermadec Islands, strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges near the shore are expected for coastal areas including Whanganui.

Any marine disturbance here is expected from 12.30pm and may continue for several hours.

As a precautionary measure, our local Civil Defence team has put up warning signs at beaches and closed the gates at Kai Iwi.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates, or check www.civildefence.govt.nz
• Listen to local Civil Defence authorities and follow any instructions regarding evacuation of your area
• Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, this includes boats)
• Stay off beaches and shore areas
• Do not go sightseeing
• Share this information with family, neighbours and friends

Information specific to Whanganui is being posted on the Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui Facebook page and on Whanganui District Council’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

There is currently a national warning of a tsunami threat for the following areas:

The West Coast of the North Island from CAPE REINGA to AHIPARA.

The East Coast of the North Island from CAPE REINGA to WHANGAREI, from MATATA to TOLAGA BAY including Whakatane and Opotiki.

And GREAT BARRIER ISLAND.  

This does not currently include Whanganui.

For more information go to www.civildefence.govt.nz