Metservice issues Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Taupo and Rotorua
UPDATE
3.48pm
Metservice has extended this warning to include the South Waikato and Whakatane districts.
Today
3.32pm
Metservice is advising people to expect torrential rain and frequent lightning strikes as thunderstorms move towards the Taupo and lower Waikato regions.
The storm is expected to move eastsoutheast towards Taupo, Wairakei and Lake Taupo at 3.15pm and affect Rangitaiki and Iwitahi at 3.45pm.
What you need to know:
- Torrential rain is forecast, with a possibility of flash flooding about streams, gullies and in urban areas.
- The National Emergency Management Agency advises to seek shelter, away from windows and stay out of marine areas.
- Move cars under cover, away from trees.
- Make sure you have a plan in the event that an power outage occurs.
Keep up to date with the latest on Metservice's Thunderstorm watch website.
Haven Falls Funeral Home Ki Rotorua
Haven Falls are very blessed to be opening their new branch in Rotorua.
Located at 271 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua these facilities offer a large chapel, dining hall and extended off road parking.
We invite you at anytime to pop in and speak with one of our team members and have a look around the facilities offered.
We operate 24 hours 7 days a week.
0800 428366
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.