default-output-block.skip-main
National | Weather

Large swells prompt warning for Bay of Plenty

The public are being asked to avoid waters along the east coast of the North Island over the next few days as big swells are expected to hit the coastline.

The forecast in the coming days shows increasing surf, which has caused concern.

Whakatāne News posted to their Facebook page photos of high tides on Ohope Beach. They have also reminded people to stay off the beach and walkways until further notice.

Since the big swells began, there have been a number of rescues in Tauranga.

Hamish Rieger, 17, from Moturiki Island recently lost his life after being knocked by a large wave.

Surf lifesavers and police have advised that the Mount base track is unsafe, prompting the council to close the track this morning.

Meteorologist Stephen Glassey says they are forecasting north east swells to increase between 2.5-3 meters tomorrow. He says Gisborne will be hit hard with possible swells of up 4 meters.

Glassey adds that swells in the Tauranga district are already high, with the current wave height standing at 2.8m.

People are encouraged to use common sense and stay alert.

Tags:
Weather