Coromandel residents are being warned to brace for impact as the remnants of Cyclone Lola sweep towards New Zealand.
MetService says a "large, deep, complex low pressure system" is moving slowly towards the north of the country.
Severe weather warnings and watches for strong winds and heavy rain have been issued across Northland, Auckland, and the Coromandel Peninsula for the next two days.
Large waves are also expected to affect eastern coasts of the upper North Island.
Thames-Coromandel Civil Defence controller Garry Towler said this event could be significant, especially for people on the eastern side of the Coromandel.
"There are a combination of factors that are adding to our concerns about this event," he said.
"It is the remnants of a cyclone, we have king tides, storm surge, heavy rain, gale force winds and ongoing land instability issues as a result of [Cyclone] Gabrielle."
Civil Defence urges the public to prepare before the storm arrives:
- Stock up on supplies, batteries and gas, check and clear drains in your neighbourhood
- Tie down outdoor furniture
- Review plans should you become isolated due to slips and flooding
"Those living close to the sea need to prepare for wave surges by having a plan B and somewhere to go, especially if the surges increase during the main high tides: 8am and 8pm Sunday and 9am and 9pm Monday," Civil Defence said.
Full list of MetService watches and warnings
Heavy Rain Warnings:
- Northland: 12pm (noon) Sunday - 6am Monday
- Coromandel Peninsula: 6pm Sunday - 3pm Monday
- Tairāwhiti/Gisborne (Tolaga Bay northwards): 3am - 9pm Monday
Heavy Rain Watches:
- Auckland and Aotea/Great Barrier Island: 6pm Sunday - 9am Monday
- Bay of Plenty (north of Tauranga): 12:01am - 6pm Monday
Strong Wind Warnings:
- Northland: 9am Sunday - 6am Monday
- Auckland (north of Whangaparāoa) and Aotea/Great Barrier Island: 6pm Sunday - 9am Monday
- Coromandel Peninsula: 9pm Sunday - 9am Monday
Strong Wind Watches:
- Auckland (south of Whangaparāoa): 6pm Sunday - 9am Monday
- The Kaimai Range and eastern Waikato: 12:01am - 9am Monday
