How to prepare for storms and king tides

Last Updated : 22 Feb 2019
Flooding image

MetService NZ is predicting that king tides may affect Tāmaki Drive and SH1 at Esmonde Road as well as some low-lying parts of Auckland on Thursday 21 February and Friday 22 February.

The areas most likely to be affected are Tāmaki Drive and Esmonde Road, although low-lying areas such as Maraetai and Beachlands will experience elevated tides.

SH1 Esmonde Road

  • Thursday 21 February, 10am: expected tide height 3.7m
  • Friday 22 February, 10am: expected tide height 3.7m
  • Friday 22 February, 11pm: expected tide height 3.6m.

Tāmaki Drive

  • Thursday 21 February, 10am: expected tide height 3.7m
  • Friday 22 February, 10am: expected tide height 3.7m.
  • Friday 22 February, 11pm: expected tide height 3.6m.

“At this stage we are expecting to see minor wave splash and seawater ponding in low-lying areas,” says Sarah Sinclair, Acting Director of Auckland Emergency Management

“We are continuing to monitor the situation with Auckland Transport, which will close roads if required.”

Healthy Waters has laid sandbags on Tāmaki Drive near the stairs and boat ramp at Kohimaramara as a precautionary measure while the area is under further investigation for tidal flooding risk. These will be removed on Saturday 23 February.

“We are continuing to monitor the situation with Auckland Transport, who will implement road closures if required.”

Go to MetService NZ online for up to date weather information and follow Auckland Transport on Facebook or Twitter for up-to-date road information.

Summer storm tips

  • Be prepared – pay attention to weather forecasts, plan your travel around them and prepare yourself before the storm hits.
  • Make a plan – make sure family, friends and flatmates know where to meet or what you’ll do in case of emergency.
  • Clear gutters and drains on your property, check trees for weak branches and bring the cat/dog/rabbit (or any other pets) inside.
  • Have torches and batteries, a full gas bottle for your bbq and a battery-operated radio ready if the power goes out.
  • If you need power to pump water or operate septic systems, have an alternate plan in place in case the power goes out.
  • If it is isolated where you live or you may get cut off, make sure you’ve got everything you need to keep going for a day or two and let us know if you need help (phone 0800 22 22 00).
  • Check on neighbours, especially those who are elderly or vulnerable. If they need help that you can't provide call 111.
  • Never drive through flood waters and always drive to the conditions.
  • If your property is at risk or your life is in danger, always call 111 immediately.
  • Report fallen trees, blocked drains or debris on public property to Auckland Council on 09 301 0101.
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