RE: weather in New Zealand.

[Mark]

Wellington, New Zealand is enduring its chilliest starts to the year in a decade, with a prolonged streak of cold weather.

MetService data reveals this summer has been anything but summery, with 13 consecutive days of below-average temperatures — the longest January cold spell since 2014.

Meteorologist Clare O’Connor confirmed the anomaly, noting January’s average temperature of 17C (62.6F) is nearly 3C below normal. "This is one of the longest runs of below-average daily temperatures we’ve seen in summer since 1980," she said.

Persistent southerlies, driven by low-pressure systems to the east of the North Island, are the main culprits. These winds have battered the region with gusts up to 100km/h and delivered double the usual rainfall, resulting in cloudy skies and colder days.
https://electroverse.substack.com/p/wellingtons-cold-start-to-summer

[Mark]

https://electroverse.substack.com/p/mid-summer-snow-blankets-new-zealands
Mount Hutt in Canterbury woke up to rare summer snow on Monday, with a chilling blast delivering a few inches of powder.

General manager James Urquhart noted that while snow falls on the mountain at least once a month year-round, summer snow is typically just a light dusting. "This amount is more than we usually see in summer," he said.

[Mark]

Heavy rainfall across New Zealand, particularly in Auckland and Northland, has caused flooding, power outages, and disruptions. Several regions of the country have been receiving heavy rains along with strong winds due to an atmospheric river phenomenon.

The heavy rain on Friday (April 4) was caused by a deep low crossing the Tasman Sea, bringing a band of warm air and moisture. MetService issued weather warnings and watches for several regions, including Northland, Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, Waikato, and the top of the South Island.

Auckland experienced significant disruptions with all Gulf Harbour ferries cancelled and replaced by buses. Power outages were reported in Remuera, Piha, Karekare, and Glenfield. Vector estimated restoration times between 3 pm and 4 pm New Zealand time for some areas.
https://www.sott.net/article/498814-Heavy-rainfall-batters-many-regions-of-New-Zealand-flooding-power-outages-throw-life-out-of-gear-nearly-8-inches-of-rainfall-overnight

[Mark]

The first snowfall of the season arrived on Tuesday afternoon, with 10cm of snow falling at Cardrona Alpine Resort, located between Queenstown and Wānaka.

According to MetService, rain is expected to fall as snow in the high country of the lower South Island this morning, with conditions beginning to ease in the afternoon.

Despite temperatures dipping to chilly lows of just 2C overnight in certain regions, MetService meteorologist Silvia Martino reassures that winter is not arriving earlier than anticipated.



"People may feel the cooler temperatures, especially after a mild start to April," says Martino. However, this temperature dip is typical for autumn, a season known for fluctuating temperatures.

Cardrona and Treble Cone general manager Laura Hedley, says, "The first snowfall of the year is always exciting, as our team and guests get prepared for another epic winter.

"Although this time around, we're glad the snow on the ground will be short-lived, as we work hard to get multiple development projects completed before the 2025 season - when Cardrona will become New Zealand's biggest ski area."

Staff say Cardrona is set to open for the winter season on June 15.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ya580-Hehhk?feature=share
https://www.sott.net/article/498932-Temperatures-drop-and-thick-snow-hits-parts-of-New-Zealand-in-early-winter-cold-snap


There is a video here

[Mark]

Cyclone Tam is causing major problems across the North Island of New Zealand, resulting in thousands of people without power, roads flooded, and all ferries in Auckland cancelled. Flights have also been delayed or stopped, leaving many travellers stuck before the Easter weekend.

A truck was found overturned near Kaiwaka, a Northland settlement. The rescue team had to pull out several drivers from their cars. Strong winds have ripped off roofs and knocked over trees and fences, too.

A scary moment happened in Mairangi Bay, Auckland, where a big tree fell on a house where an elderly couple lives. The tree damaged their balcony and blocked them inside. Their daughter said the tree just missed their bedroom.

In another part of Auckland, a loud bang surprised a man when the wind knocked over his fence. Many homes have been damaged, and trees have fallen on houses and cars. People are being told to stay home if they can and avoid driving unless it's necessary.


click here to see video >> RE: weather in New Zealand. in International - Page 2 of 2

Northland MP Grant McCallum said the storm damage in Paihia is very serious and keeps happening every time there's bad weather. He said something needs to be done to protect the area, especially because so many people there rely on tourism.

[Mark]

Snow in New Zealand's South Island is not unheard of, but it is typically reserved for the colder winter months. The recent snowstorm, however, defied these norms by occurring during a time when snow is a rarity.

Reports from the Southern Alps and surrounding regions noted significant snowfall, with some areas receiving over 30 centimeters. The storm caught many off guard, leading to both excitement and challenges as communities adapted to the sudden wintery conditions.
https://www.msn.com/en-nz/news/other/cyclone-triggers-rare-snowstorm-in-new-zealand-s-south-island/ss-AA1DgLEk?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=U531&cvid=4484481f8e6b4065a6c8166432a49a3f&ei=9#image=2

[Mark]

Video of Beckenham at bottom of page.

The Selwyn District and Banks Peninsula are also under a local state of emergency. In Selwyn Huts, residents were told to self-evacuate or risk being cut off. Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell travelled to Canterbury to assess the situation.

Floodwaters have submerged roads across Christchurch. In the city's southern parts, streets like Cashmere Road, Henderson Road, Summit Road, and Eastern Terrace are either fully or partially closed. Northern areas also faced major disruptions, with Avondale Road, Fitzgerald Avenue, and sections of New Brighton Road underwater.

Banks Peninsula roads have been badly hit. SH75 from Tai Tapu to Akaroa remains closed. Other closures include Gebbies Pass Road, Le Bons Bay Road, Millers Road, and several bay routes. Slips and fallen trees have made access dangerous or impossible.

Authorities have urged people to avoid non-essential travel. If driving is necessary, residents are advised to go slowly and avoid flooded roads.





Public services have also been disrupted. The Little River Library and Customer Service Hub shut down due to flooding and will reopen on May 2.

Officials warn people to stay away from contaminated floodwaters. The storm will persist overnight; another high tide is expected around 7:41 pm.


https://www.sott.net/article/499325-Christchurch-in-New-Zealand-declares-state-of-emergency-amid-torrential-rain-and-widespread-flooding-6-inches-of-rainfall-in-24-hours

[Mark]

Mt. Hutt, New Zealand, received 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) of snow over the weekend—an unprecedented total for early May.

Snow drifts exceeded 2 m (6.6 ft) in some areas, with the upper mountain base now around 1.8 m (5.9 ft) and the lower base at 50 cm (1.6 ft). This is a record accumulation for the first week of May, which normally sees just 5 cm (2 inches) of powder.

https://electroverse.substack.com/p/mt-hutt-sees-record-early-may-snowfall

[Mark]

Early snows will fall across New Zealand’s South Island this week.

Two modest systems will deliver up to 6 inches of dense snow between Wednesday night and Sunday.

The Remarkables will see the highest totals: perhaps half a foot by the weekend. Cardrona is forecast to receive some 5 inches total, while Coronet Peak should get 3 inches.

Snow levels start high—near 5,000 feet—but drop to around 2,700 feet on Friday.
https://electroverse.substack.com/p/early-snow-for-nz-uhi-sprawl-has

[Mark]

Winter has arrived with force in New Zealand, as a polar outbreak sweeps across the country, delivering heavy snow and biting cold a heavy snowfall.

Among the coldest days in recent memory are being endured across the South Island, with the alpine village of Aoraki/Mount Cook posting a brutal -12.9C (8.8F). Locals claimed it dipped even lower overnight to -13C (8.6F). This reading is significantly below the June average for the area and not far off the all-time station record of -15C (5F).

Elsewhere: Wellington hit 2.9C (37.2F), Auckland shivered at 4.5C (40.1F), and Christchurch dipped below at -2.8C (27F). It’s a cold snap reminiscent of historical extremes — not unprecedented, but certainly uncommon this early in the season.

The snow came in thick and fast, and all.

More than 30 inches (76 cm) fell on alpine regions, with Mt Hutt hammered by over 90 cm (~35 inches) in just five days. Lake Tekapo was similarly buried, and State Highway 8 between Fairlie and Twizel was shut down due to hazardous conditions.

Emergency services were forced into action as travelers became stranded amid worsening visibility and treacherous ice.

Skiers are rejoicing. After a rocky pre-season, these storms have reset the playing field.

Mt Hutt now boasts a base depth of nearly 100 cm (~39 inches), with more snow forecast on June 12 and 13.
https://electroverse.substack.com/p/heavy-snow-and-deep-freeze-sweep

[Mark]

June 18, 2025 • 9:33am


Multiple crashes led to the closure of Heriot Row in central Dunedin.
Hamish McNeilly
Icy conditions in central Dunedin have caused multiple vehicle crashes and led to the closure of Heriot Row, disrupting traffic and prompting emergency services to respond.

Large areas of the city were blanketed in a frost early on Wednesday, making roads treacherous and increasing the risk for drivers.

Police officers worked to free three trapped cars, which had crashed in a bottle neck at the bottom of Heriot Row.

A tow truck as well as a grit truck were called to the area.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360727399/icy-conditions-lead-vehicle-pileup-central-dunedin-road

[Mark]

While the Aussie Alps logged one of their best winters in years, alarmists pointed across the Tasman at New Zealand’s sparse snowpack as their proof of "climate breakdown". But spring has flipped the script.

Temple Basin Ski Area, which announced closure in late August after weeks of bare rock, was hit with a foot and a half of fresh snow late last week. Enough to reopen for the weekend, spin lifts, and bring skiers and boarders back up the slopes.

“It was simply fantastic,” said Temple Basin president Peter Marriott. “Really good snow with really good people, and lots of smiles.”

The Basin now plans to keep running lifts on weekends — an unexpected comeback.
https://electroverse.substack.com/p/new-zealand-resort-revived-noaa-data

[Mark]

Twenty-seven pilot whales have died after they became stranded on a remote stretch of Northland coastline on Monday.

They were discovered on Twilight Beach (Paenga Rehia), about 11km south of Cape Rēinga, that is part of the popular Te Paki Coastal Track and the first leg of Te Araroa.

Ngāti Kuri Trust Board executive trustee Sheridan Waitai said walkers had come across the mass stranding.

The alarm was raised with Ngāti Kuri, who live and work in the area, and the Department of Conservation (DoC).

"We are always ready to go because this is the season and this is what happens," Waitai said.

Ngāti Kuri assessed the site on Monday and confirmed there were 27 pilot whales stranded.

The location, the condition of the animals and tidal factors contributed to the decision not to launch a rescue operation.

Waitai said there had been times when others had tried to save and move stranded whales but it is hard on the marine mammals.

"Just touching them is awful for them. So, sometimes rescuing's not really the best choice."

The decision not to attempt to rescue the pilot whales on Monday had carried a lot of weight, especially as whales are considered family and tūpuna (elders) in Māori culture.

"It's more the responsibility and the obligation to do it right and do the tikanga right," Waitai said.

"You wouldn't hang your father out in front of everybody and leave them out on the beach and whales are like whānau, so you don't you treat them like that."

Waitai said decisions are made so their whakapapa can be maintained through kōrero.

"So you can always uphold and remember who they are."

All of the pilot whales have since died. In response, Ngāti Kuri developed a cultural and bio-hazard clean-up plan.

The iwi informed DoC who, on Ngāti Kuri's invitation, deployed two of their staff to help.

"There have since been two tides that have flushed the beach clean and it is now safe to walk on," Waitai said.

Ngāti Kuri asked that walkers keep off the dunes from Te Rerenga Wairua/Cape Rēinga to Kahokawa on Te Oneroa a Tohe/Ninety Mile Beach.

Waitai said the request was to prevent further bio-diversity damage to the dunes and to also protect cultural sites.

A rāhui was put in place but has since lifted.

Waitai praised the walkers for their help and for respecting the process, which included them being asked to leave the beach.

"We just said, 'You're welcome to stay up in the micro camp and rest up there, but not on the beach'. And there was no opposition. They were just they're just really helpful."

Pilot whales - which are in fact one of the largest members of the dolphin family - are considered prolific stranders.

Information by DoC stated that while there were recordings of individual strandings nationwide, mass stranding hotspots were Golden Bay, Stewart Island, and the Chatham Islands.

The biggest recorded pilot whale stranding was an estimated 1000 whales at the Chatham Islands in 1918.

Northland's largest pilot whale stranding is considered to be in August 2010 at Spirits Bay, about 30km away from Twilight Beach, when 80 to 100 pilot whales stranded. Of them, 58 died and the remainder were refloated or moved to nearby Rarawa Beach for release.

The rescue effort was recognised as one of the largest and most complex in the region. DoC, Project Jonah and Ngāti Kuri were all involved, their numbers bolstered by volunteers.

Another mass stranding took place in November last year when more than 30 pilot whales became stuck at Ruakākā Beach.

Four died and the remainder were successfully refloated.

DoC has said most scientists believe individual whales strand because they are diseased and are coming to the end of their natural lifespan.

However, the department acknowledged mass strandings were more contentious and surrounded by numerous theories.

"The most likely hypothesis is that pilot whales' echolocation is not well-suited to shallow, gently sloping waters, because they generally prefer high relief (steep) areas such as the edge of the continental shelf."

DoC said this would also explain why most mass strandings happen in summer, when the whales follow popular food sources inshore.

"Another theory points to pilot whales' highly sociable behaviour - when one whale loses its way and strands, its pod mates may swim to its aid."

Information by the department stated the theory that parasites affect the nervous systems of pilot whales and may be responsible for mass strandings was not well supported.
https://www.sott.net/article/502545-27-pilot-whales-die-after-stranding-on-remote-Northland-beach-in-New-Zealand

[Mark]

Flooding has inundated parts of the Coromandel Peninsula as a tropical low moves south toward New Zealand, prompting a State of Emergency in the Thames‑Coromandel District.
https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/01/21/in-photos-flooding-across-coromandel-as-tropical-low-bears-down/

[Mark]

At least two people have died and several are reported to be missing, including a young child, after landslides in New Zealand, officials said on Thursday.

It comes after high winds and heavy rainfall over the past few days on the North Island, leading to multiple power outages and widespread flooding, local media reported.

The first landslide hit a house in the community of Welcome Bay on New Zealand's North Island at 4.50am, police said.

Two people escaped the house, and the bodies of two who were trapped inside were recovered hours later, Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell said.

Later the same morning, emergency services were called to a second slide at the base of nearby Mount Maunganui.

The rubble hit Beachside Holiday Park, where a number of people in the "single figures" are missing.







Images showed vehicles, travel trailers and an amenities block crushed by debris.

As of Thursday evening, no survivors or bodies had been recovered from the Mount Maunganui rubble.

"There was a shower block and a, sort of, combined shower block-kitchen block and there were people using that at the time the slide came through and they are some of the ones that we're working hard to try and recover now," Mitchell told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

New Zealand's Fire and Emergency commander William Pike said that members of the public "tried to get into the rubble and did hear some voices".

He said that his crews "were able to hear the same. Shortly after our initial crew arrived, we withdrew everyone from the site due to possible movement and slip".

No sign of life had been detected since, Pike said.

Australian tourist Sonny Worrall said he was within the campground when he heard then saw the landslide.

"I looked behind me and there's a huge landslide coming down. And I'm still shaking from it now," Worrall told New Zealand 1News news service.

"I turned around and I had to jump out from my seat as fast as I could and just run."

He looked back to see the rubble carrying a travel trailer behind him.

"It was like the scariest thing I've ever experienced in my life," Worrall said.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/V_ehZJXWg1Q?feature=share

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/awMiVDTsNjU?feature=share

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2PYMGGcI_AY?feature=share

https://www.sott.net/article/504207-Up-to-9-people-dead-in-landslides-floods-after-heavy-rainfall-in-New-Zealand-UPDATE