Bay of Plenty Upgraded to an Orange Heavy Rain Warning

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 11:28 AM

By Imogen Brophy

MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for the Bay of Plenty west of Whakatāne from 9am Thursday.

MetService said a subtropical system north of New Zealand is set to bring wet, windy weather to the country later from tomorrow.

200 to 250 millimetres of rain is expected from 9am tomorrow until 3am on Saturday.

It said there will be peak rates of 15 to 20 millimetres an hour.

Early Friday is expected to bring the worst level of rain with 25 to 30 millimetres of rain per hour.

MetService said dangerous river conditions, flooding and slips will be likely, causing dangerous driving conditions and potential road closures.

Community Constable Rob Jones said drivers will need to increase their following distance, turn on lights and should avoid travel if possible.

MetService said there is a high chance of upgrading to a red warning.

We’re committed to keeping the Eastern Bay informed with accurate, timely coverage.
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