🌊 Wave Warning for the West Coast

👣 White baiters, beach‑combers, fishers, walkers, runners, surfers — and anyone keen to get the sand between your toes after the rain — please be aware of a wave warning issued by MetService New Zealand from Jackson Bay to Karamea.

Please forward this on to those going near the beaches Sunday to Tuesday.

📅 WHEN:

⚠️ Sunday 30th August afternoon → Tuesday 1st September

🎣 Whitebait season starts on Tuesday 1 September, meaning more people will be around river mouths and beaches leading up to this.

🌕 It also coincides with large midday tides pushing over 3 m, increasing wave beach runup distances.

🌬️ What this means:

🌊 Expect bigger, more powerful waves than usual.

🚫 Take extra care near river mouths, rocky areas, and exposed beaches.

👀 Keep a close eye on kids, pets, and gear.

Issued by MetService 12.17pm Friday 28th August 2026

Valid from: 3:00pm Sunday 30 August to 9:00am Tuesday 01 September

Combined Wave:

North of Hokitika: Southwest combined waves rising to 5 to 5.5 metres Sunday afternoon or evening, and to 6 to 6.5 metres on Monday, easing below 5 metres Tuesday morning. Peak period 12-13 seconds.

Elsewhere: Southwest combined waves rising to 5.5 to 6 metres on Monday, easing below 5 metres Tuesday morning. Peak period 12-13 seconds.

Swell:

North of Hokitika: Southwest swell rising to 4.5 metres Sunday evening and to 5.5 metres on Monday, easing Tuesday morning. Period 12-13 seconds.

Elsewhere: Southwest swell rising to 5 metres on Monday, easing Tuesday morning. Period 12-13 seconds.

Wind Wave: Southwest wind waves 2.5 metres.

Good morning 🌦️

Hopefully this is the last orange warning from Metservice for this current event.

It pertains to Buller District only.

There has been abit of surface flooding in Westport and complaints of people driving too fast through the water causing wakes to go into shops/properties. Please slow down or not drive through the water at all.

MetService Severe Weather Warnings and Watches 0945

Situation
A front over the upper South Island is moving north and becomes slow moving over the upper North Island on Friday as a low develops on the front, bringing a period of heavy rain. Severe northwest gales may affect some parts of central New Zealand today. Warnings and Watches are in force. Please stay up to date with forecasts.

Heavy Rain Warning – Orange
Area: Ranges of the Buller district
Period: 5hrs from 9:00am Friday to 2:00pm Friday

Forecast:
Expect 20 to 40 mm of rain. Peak rates of 10 to 20 mm/h.
Note, rain easing from the south.
Minimal chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.

Impact:
Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.

Action:
Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.

Issued: 9:45am Friday, 28th August 2026
Next Update: 9:00pm Friday, 28th August 2026

Strong Wind Watch – Yellow
Area: Canterbury High Country
Period: 6hrs from 11:00am Friday to 5:00pm Friday

Forecast:
Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.
Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.

Issued: 9:45am Friday, 28th August 2026
Next Update: 9:00pm Friday, 28th August 2026

Cancellations
Heavy Rain Warning – Orange for Headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers about and south of Arthur's Pass

Heavy Rain Warning – Orange for Ranges of the Grey district

Heavy Rain Warning – Orange for Headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers

Heavy Rain Warning – Orange for Westland

🚗 Important Safety Reminder🚗

Be aware the overnight and current rain is again causing surface flooding. A reminder to be prepared for your journey and check council and NZTA website/facebook for updates.

Here are some key tips to ensure your safety on the roads:

Drive Cautiously: Reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Wet roads can lead to slippery conditions.

Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Be aware of potential flooding and avoid driving through waterlogged areas. It’s better to find an alternative route than risk your safety.

Stay Informed: Keep up with weather updates and road conditions. Check local advisories for any closures or hazards.

Use Headlights: Turn on your headlights during heavy rain to improve visibility and help other drivers see you.