'Prepare to evacuate': Thousands across New Zealand prepare for severe weather warnings as cyclone approaches

Thousands of people across New Zealand are being prepared to evacuate as Cyclone Vaianu moves closer to the nation, bringing severe weather conditions.

The system is set to reach New Zealand by Saturday night, with a state of emergency being declared for Northland, Whakatāne and Hawke's Bay as they prepare for what is being called a "major wind event".

Multiple emergency alerts have been sent out today across New Zealand, including in Auckland, urging residents to brace for heavy rain and strong wind warnings.

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"Prepare now. Have a plan to shelter at home, deal with potential power outages, or evacuate if necessary," the alert said.

"Follow forecasts and do not wait for official warnings.

"Wind damage, flooding and landslides can occur at any time."

Stuff has reported that the entire North Island is under both severe weather watches and warnings, with strong wind warnings for Great Barrier Island and the Coromandel Peninsula, where gusts of up to 130km/h are expected.

The nation's South Island is reportedly bracing for heavy rain across eastern Marlborough, especially between Blenheim and Kaikōura and near the Richmond Range.

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New Zealand Civil Defence Minister Mark Mitchell told Stuff that the nation is prepared for Cyclone Vaianu.

"We've seen it come through Fiji and the devastation it's caused there," he told Stuff.

"We know it's coming, it's on its way to us. We've learned the lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle, and the whole emergency management system is activated.

"We're as ready as we can to have the strongest response that we can deliver. Which, of course, helps with a strong recovery as well."

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