Heavy rain warning for Northland
Northland
Day Issued
Wednesday 21 January 2026
With the long weekend coming up, the heavy rain means there is an increased risk of nasty germs and chemicals in our rivers, lakes, and beaches, even at usually clean spots.
To stay safe:
- follow Civil Defence Northland on Facebook for updates and follow instructions from emergency services if required
- never try to walk, swim, drive through, or play in flood water — always assume that floodwater is contaminated with farm run-off, animal and human sewage and chemicals
- if you do experience any flooding to your property make sure you clean up safely, wearing appropriate protective clothing and covering any cuts and wounds — also wash your hands after contact with flood water or flood contaminated items, and before eating and after going to the toilet.
- avoid swimming at recreational water spots for 48 hours after heavy rainfall, or until SafeSwim shows it is safe to go back in the water
- kayakers and sailors also need to be careful around the water and avoid going in or getting wet
- hold off collecting kaimoana for 28 days after heavy rainfall — this is because there is an increased risk of contamination from stormwater and sewage.
If you feel unwell after coming into contact with contaminated water, contact your doctor, or call Healthline for free on 0800 611 116.