Coastguard update on ex-tropical cyclone Fili

Coastguard continues to keep a close eye on ex-tropical cyclone Fili as it approaches the eastern coast of the North Island. Updated MetService warnings include coastal floods, gales reaching 100km/h, heavy rain and rough sea conditions from Northland down to East Cape over the next 48 hours. In particular, MetService has this morning issued a heavy rain red warning for Gisborne and the Wairoa district of Hawke’s Bay.

Coastguard Head of Operations Rob McCaw: "As the severe weather closes in, we strongly urge boaties to now stay off the water and ensure their vessel is secure before the storm hits. For those out at sea, now is the time to get to a place of safety and shelter until conditions pass."

"As the ex-tropical cyclone's track becomes clear, people need to be regularly checking local marine conditions on both the MetService and Coastguard apps.”

Coastguard advice for ex-tropical cyclone Fili:

Regularly check your local marine conditions on both the MetService and the Coastguard apps. Available to download from Google Play and the App Store.
Before the weather hits, check your vessel is on a reliable and secure mooring.
Avoid being at anchor if at all possible. If you're at sea, ensure you have a plan in place in case conditions worsen, including identifying areas where you can seek shelter.
Make sure your vessel is weathertight and that your bilge pumps work.
Marine conditions can be disrupted for a time after the initial cyclone has passed through. Check your local marine weather forecast before heading back onto the water, if in doubt, don’t go out.
Coastguard volunteers remain on call 24/7 to provide urgent assistance to those in-need on the water. For on-water assistance call *500 free from your mobile phone or use your local Coastguard VHF channel. For marine emergencies please call 111 or VHF Channel 16.