Tonga has downgraded Tropical Cyclone Vaianu to Category 2, but authorities are warning that hazardous conditions remain in the kingdom, while New Zealand forecasters caution the weakening system could still deliver heavy rain and damaging winds to parts of the North Island later this week.
In Tropical Cyclone Advisory Number 07, issued at 1am on Thursday, 9 April 2026, the Fua‘amotu Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre confirmed that although Vaianu has weakened, a tropical cyclone warning remains in force for Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau.
The advisory said a heavy rain warning and flash flood advisory remain in place for Ha‘apai, Tongatapu and ‘Eua, with the potential for surface flooding and rapidly rising streams.
A strong wind warning continues for Tongatapu and ‘Eua land areas, while residents are urged to remain vigilant as conditions may still deteriorate, especially during squally weather.
Coastal and marine warnings
Significant threats remain for coastal and marine areas, with authorities maintaining multiple warnings across Tonga’s waters as Tropical Cyclone Vaianu continues to affect sea conditions.
A storm warning remains in force for Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau coastal waters, while a heavy damaging swell warning applies to Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau.
A gale warning is still in effect for Tongatapu and ‘Eua coastal waters, and a strong wind warning and small craft advisory continues for Ha‘apai coastal waters.
In addition, a small craft advisory remains in force for Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau, with mariners urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel at sea.
Mariners have been advised not to take unnecessary risks at sea, while coastal communities are urged to watch for large and damaging swells.
Cyclone may impact New Zealand
Meanwhile, New Zealand forecasters say Tropical Cyclone Vaianu could bring heavy rain and damaging gale‑force winds to parts of the North Island later this week.
MetService’s latest severe weather outlook indicates the system is expected to track south to southeast, with high confidence that warning‑level rainfall may impact the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, northern Gisborne/Tairāwhiti, and the ranges of Hawke’s Bay on Sunday.
New Zealand forecasters warned that the entire North Island is under a strong wind watch from 1am to 11pm on Sunday as Cyclone Vaianu makes its way down from the tropics.
Speaking to the media this afternoon, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the prospect of Cyclone Vaianu hitting the country.
“It’ll likely have a big impact on the North Island, particularly on Sunday.
“We’re encouraging people to stock up, get supplies and tie things down.”
He said emergency agencies are on full notice and are ready for it.
“It’s important we use the time we’ve got to make sure people are prepared at homes and households.”
‘Act now’ – Nema
The National Emergency Management Agency (Nema) is warning Kiwis to “act now” as Tropical Cyclone Vaianu heads for New Zealand, as reported by radio Newstalk ZB.
MetService modelling shows Vaianu bringing heavy rain and extremely strong winds to parts of the country on Friday and Saturday, with red severe weather warnings possible.
Nema director of civil defence emergency management John Price said people should start preparing now before the storm arrives, as “later could be too late”.
“If you can, make sure drains around your property are clear of waste and debris, and bring inside or tie down anything that strong winds could break or pick up,” he said.
“Trust your danger sense and don’t wait for official warnings. Do not enter floodwaters as they are dangerous and can kill you.”
Price said landslides were an “almost certainty” in some areas, with the ground already saturated after recent heavy rain.
“Watch for warning signs like small slips or rockfalls, water flowing out of a slope, trees or fences that start to tilt, or doors and window frames that begin to stick.
“Also take care around trees, which may become unstable and fall.”
He said the storm would be especially tough for communities still recovering from recent severe weather and urged people to support one another and reach out for help if needed.
