Coastguard is urging boaties across the upper North Island to use the weekend to prepare for Cyclone Gabrielle’s arrival late Sunday into next week. 

Forecasters are predicting Cyclone Gabrielle to bring heavy rain, strong winds and rough sea conditions to Northland, Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula, northern and eastern Waikato, Bay of Plenty and northern Gisborne from Monday to Tuesday. 

Coastguard Head of Operations Rob McCaw said boaties with vessels at marinas and on moorings should take the next few days to check their vessel is well secured and ready to see-out the coming weather. 

“After several massive weather events already this year, forecasts suggest Cyclone Gabrielle’s impact could be as significant if not bigger – making being ready for any scenario vital,” he said.  

"With a cyclonic system the combination of wind and rain along with the rapid rise in sea-states creates a high-risk environment on and near the water. So, spend the next couple of days making sure your vessels are secure, bilge pumps are working and everything is tied down securely.” 

Rob McCaw said boaties should prepare now, avoiding needing to act in the eye of the storm. 

“Do not plan to be at-sea over the warning periods, even if the conditions appear calm. Systems like this can arrive rapidly with little or no warning, it is simply not worth the risk. If you are at sea when Gabrielle arrives, ensure you’ve got a plan – identify areas now where you can seek shelter and be safe, review your onboard safety procedures and make sure Coastguard or Maritime Radio know where you are,” he said. 

"As always, the best rule of thumb is ‘if in doubt, don’t go out’.”