Prepare for the Pacific cyclone season
The Pacific cyclone season officially runs from November 1 to April 30, with tropical cyclones bringing heavy rainfall, high winds, and storm surges.
With NIWA and MetService forecasting up to 12 named tropical cyclones this season, it is important for those visiting the Pacific region to be aware of what is happening and prepared for any emergency.
Be prepared:
- Plan for emergencies before departure;
- Register your details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) on their SafeTravel site. Travellers who register can be warned if a major cyclone approaches, they will be given advice on precautions to take, and MFAT can contact you following a significant cyclone to check on your well-being;
- Travellers should monitor local radio and other sources of information such as a meteorological service, to stay aware of local weather developments. If you are affected by a cyclone, it is important you follow advice from local authorities concerning safety and evacuation.
If severe weather is forecast:
- Follow official advice from national meteorological services, disaster management offices or local civil defence;
- Do not venture outdoors during a cyclone and remain well away from the sea and rivers;
- Update loved ones in New Zealand directly and /or update your social media status as soon as you are able once the cyclone has passed.
The aim is to keep everyone safe – remember to think of your immediate community who might need assistance.
Look up your local civil defence group to learn about planning for, and what to do during an emergency.
Please check the travel advice for your specific destination on SafeTravel.
Measles outbreak
The New Zealand Ministry of Health is advising people travelling overseas to ensure they are fully immunised against measles before they go.
The Ministry of Health is asking primary health providers in New Zealand to ensure vaccinations are up to date for any individual (aged 50 and under) to any country experiencing an active outbreak of measles.
Current outbreaks of measles include Samoan, Tonga and Fiji.
All people need to be vaccinated at least two weeks before travel.
Please check the advice on the measles outbreak HERE.