METSERVICE & TRAFFIC BULLETIN

MetService and Traffic Bulletin - Pigeon Post News.

Traffic bulletin and

MetService Severe Weather Watch 

MetService: Issued at 9:43am Fri 24 Nov 2023

Strong winds for Wellington and Marlborough, and heavy rain for Hawke's Bay and Tairawhiti/Gisborne

A cold front moves northwards over central New Zealand today, followed by strong southerly winds. A Strong Wind Watch is in force for Wellington and parts of Marlborough.

A low pressure system is expected to develop northeast of East Cape this evening, bringing a strong and humid south to southeast flow to Hawke's Bay and Tairawhiti/Gisborne. Heavy rain should develop during Saturday and continue through to Sunday. The Heavy Rain Watch for parts of Hawke's Bay and Tairawhiti/Gisborne has been upgraded to Orange Warnings.

People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case any changes are made.

Strong Wind Watch 

Area: Wellington, Eastern Marlborough Sounds and the Kaikoura Coast

Valid: 7 hours from 2:00pm Fri 24 Nov to 9:00pm Fri 24 Nov

Forecast: Southerly winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.

An update will be issued by 9:00pm Fri 24 Nov

WAKA KOTAHI TRAFFIC BULLETIN 

Important information for drivers:

• The Metservice has issued a strong wind watch for Wellington, eastern Marlborough Sounds and the Kaikoura Coast. It is in effect this afternoon and into this evening (Friday, 24 November) with severe gales forecast. Road users - particularly motorcyclists, truck and van drivers, and towing vehicles – must take extra care in exposed areas. Strong wind gusts don’t just affect your driving. They can create other hazards like treefalls, downed powerlines, and blown debris. Check weather and road conditions before you travel.
• Metservice Weather Warnings
• Waka Kotahi Journey Planner

MetService & NZ Transport Agency.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

Weather News Release - Covering period of Thursday 23 - Monday 27 November

METSERVICE.

Dramatic shift in weather 

 23/11/2023

MetService is closely monitoring a significant weather shift set to unfold as a large frontal system sweeps northward across the country. This meteorological event is poised to bring notable changes in temperature, strong winds, and heavy rain over the next 24 hours and into the weekend.

Today (Thursday), the eastern South Island braces for thunderstorm activity, accompanied by punchy winds and potential hail. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane emphasises, "Rapid changes in weather conditions are expected with this frontal passage."

Thursday boasts warm temperatures in Blenheim (28°C) and Christchurch and Ashburton (27°C). However, a stark temperature drop is anticipated as the cold front progresses from the South Island to the North Island by Saturday. Maximum temperatures on Friday in the South Island only reach the low to mid-teens, with Ashburton and Christchurch  at a nippy 12°C and 13°C.

For the North Island, Masterton drops from 25°C on Thursday to 14°C on Saturday, while Auckland and Northland will transition to cooler and fresher air, departing from the "tropical feel" of late. Brief snowfalls are also possible in elevated areas of the lower South Island late Thursday into Friday.

A significant feature of this weather system is the arrival of strong and blustery southerly winds, affecting the eastern South Island and lower North Island. A Strong Wind Watch has been issued for Wellington, Marlborough Sounds, and the Kaikōura Coast for Friday from 2 pm to 11 pm. Makgabutlane advises, "Precautions are recommended, securing loose items and exercising caution on the roads, especially in exposed areas where gusts may approach severe gale." Strong winds persist over the North Island during the weekend, especially in Gisborne and the Bay of Plenty.

These winds may also generate large waves in the lower North Island on Friday, extending to the eastern North Island on Saturday, with heights reaching 3 to 4 metres. Extra care is urged for those planning activities near the water during this period.

Lastly, the frontal system also brings rainfall for most of the country. The wettest conditions are expected to impact the eastern North Island on the back of an already wet start to this past week. A Heavy Rain Watch is in place for Hawke's Bay and Tairāwhiti/Gisborne from Friday 1 pm to Sunday 9 am. “This is long period of wet weather, and residents are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts, as areas may be added or upgraded in the coming days,” Makgabutlane says.

The weather system is expected to move away on Sunday, bringing improved conditions to the South Island and most of the North Island. The reprieve will be brief, however, as the next low-pressure system approaches in the new week. Details of this will be added in the coming days on MetService’s new look Severe Weather Outlook. MetService is New Zealand’s only authorised provider of Severe Weather Watches and Warnings.

MetService Communications.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

Nelson Airport tests it’s emergency response this Saturday

Nelson / Tasman Airport

Nelson Airport tests emergency response with planned simulation

23 November 2023

This Saturday 25 November, Nelson Airport's Rescue Fire Service will conduct a full-scale emergency exercise in partnership with Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Police and Hato Hone St John.

Involving 80 to 100 emergency service personnel and volunteers, the exercise will simulate an aircraft crash landing. The airport will remain fully operational during the exercise, so there won’t be any disruption to normal services or activities.

Nelson Airport Senior Rescue Fire Officer Matt van der Heyden said the airport was required to conduct a comprehensive emergency exercise every two years under Civil Aviation Authority rules.

“The exercise is a chance to test our response efforts, emergency plans, procedures, equipment and communication systems. Fortunately, events such as the one we’re practising for are extremely rare, but that makes simulations such as this even more important to ensure we are prepared to respond should the need ever arise.”

The exercise will begin at 10.30am and is expected to be complete by 2pm.

“There will be controlled live fire and smoke, as well as additional emergency service traffic and activity around the airport,” Matt said. “This is no cause for concern, it is all part of the exercise and has been carefully planned over several months leading up to this Saturday.”

Matt said the area would be very busy with emergency vehicles and personnel and asked the public to refrain from creating congestion in the area by coming to watch.

“We need to make sure the area is kept clear for those participating and other airport tenants who will be continuing to operate their businesses as usual.”

Nelson Airport Communications Manager, Beth Catley.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

Investment of $6 Million boost for Port Tarakohe, Pōhara, Tākaka, Golden Bay.

Port Tarakohe

Port Tarakohe Investment shows confidence in Nelson Tasman’s Blue

Economy

The Nelson Regional Development Agency welcomes the Kānoa investment into Port Tarakohe announced today by Tasman District Council.

Port Tarakohe is identified by NRDA and others regional leaders as a major project of region, national, and sector significance. NRDA has been advocating for investment into Port Tarakohe over a number of years and congratulates TDC and the Government for working together to make today’s announcement possible.

Fiona Wilson, NRDA CE says “the economic impact assessments carried out in 2019 showed that the investment announced today has direct net benefits of up to $143 million and could be worth over $19 million annually once the Port is fully operational, servicing the 500% forecast growth of mussel production in Golden Bay and Tasman Bay. This will leverage major industry investment in new marine farms, boats and processing

facilities and help ensure the eight iwi of Te Tauihu can access and leverage their aquaculture settlement assets. This project will benefit the entirety of Nelson Tasman, not just Golden Bay.”

“NRDA has been working alongside TDC, Kanoa and regional leaders to promote Nelson Tasman as the home of the Blue Economy. We continue to prioritise our blue economy as a key economic focus with the potential to lift our low productivity. Port Tarakohe is one project we have been advocating for and today’s announcement helps build our world-class assets and ecosystem.”

“Getting regional projects across the line requires continual effort from a range of entities. Port Tarakohe was identified as a priority project in the 2022 and 2023 Briefing for Ministers. Today’s investment shows the value of undertaking efforts such as the Briefing for Ministers annually which puts together our collectively agreed regional priorities,” says Fiona. 

Gareth Power Gordon, NRDA Strategy and Investment Manager says “Investing in Port Tarakohe provides industry and investor confidence in the aquaculture sector. The scaled commercialisation of new high-value opportunities is reliant on the availability of appropriate growing space with appropriate port servicing which this investment will unlock.

“Add other recent investments such as the Port Nelson Slipway redevelopment, Snap Group’s advanced manufacturing, and funding for investigations into microalgae highlights the level of activity happening in Nelson Tasman’s Blue Economy. Having the Government support initiatives such for Moananui, our Blue Economy Cluster, means Nelson Tasman is starting to be recognised for our expertise and supports NRDA’s wider investment attraction programme” says Gareth.

NRDA will continue to work with TDC and other partners to promote Port Tarakohe and Nelson Tasman’s Blue Economy to ensure we can maximise the economic potential of the region.

Nelson Regional Development Agency.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

Urgent Road Works at Dellows Bluff to Ensure Safe Christmas Travel

Under Slip repairs November 2023. Credit Photo Waka Kotahi.

 

Four Weeks of Stop/Go Traffic Management for Dellows Bluff Improvements

Road crews are intensifying their efforts to complete essential under-slip and rockfall works on State Highway 6 at Dellows Bluff near Murchison in time for the upcoming Christmas holidays. The New Zealand Transport Agency, Waka Kotahi, has adjusted its schedule to accelerate the project, aiming for a full restoration of the highway and the opening of both lanes to accommodate the anticipated surge in holiday traffic.

Stop/Go Traffic Management: 

Commencing on Monday, 20 November, and running until Friday, 22 December, Waka Kotahi has implemented 24/7 stop/go traffic management from Hinehaka Road to the intersection of SH65 at Dellows Bluff. During this period, the road will be limited to one lane due to the narrowness of the road, the nature of the necessary machinery, and the extensive work involved. Drivers are advised to plan ahead, adhere to temporary speed limits of 50km/h, and allow extra time for their journeys.

Works Schedule and Safety Measures:

The roadwork schedule includes a pavement digout at the western end of the project site. Waka Kotahi expresses gratitude to residents and road users for their cooperation and patience during this crucial maintenance work. Drivers are reminded to follow road work signs and temporary speed limits for their safety and that of the work crews.

In the event of adverse weather conditions, there may be rescheduling of works, with updates provided. 

Public Comments:

• Thanks - much appreciated. We are planning on departing Blenheim early on Friday, so hopefully it won't be too much of a problem. Regards, R&D.
• Y'all are doing a great job. Good things take time. 👍👍👍
• All over it Callum 🍞👊
• Ewwwwssshhhh after spending 1 year on this site I gotta say, well done it's looking GREAT.

New Zealand Transport Agency, Waka Kotahi

Pigeon Post News, Richmond

Weather News Release - Covering period of Mon 20 - Thu 23 November

MetService.

Thunderstorms, Warmth, and a Cool End to the Week

20/11/2023

MetService has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the risk of downpours in the Auckland, Waikato, Coromandel and western Bay of Plenty regions this Monday afternoon and evening. Widespread rain continues to fall in the eastern areas of the North Island while the majority of the South Island remains relatively settled until a frontal system arrives on Thursday. 

The remnants of a low pressure system is lying across the North Island to start the week. This system has brought warm and humid air in around the northern half of the North Island, which is increasing the chance of thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. The highest risk is for the Auckland, Waikato, Coromandel and western Bay of Plenty regions where there’s sufficient likelihood of downpours (rain exceeding 25mm/hour) for a Severe Thunderstorm Watch.  

MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris mentions: “The Watch covers the potential of severe thunderstorms, if we observe one on our radar network then we will issue a Red Severe Thunderstorm Warning, this means that impacts are likely and people should avoid the area if possible.” 

Heading south, there is a risk of thunderstorms for inland areas between Kahurangi National Park and Otago. 

Persistent, and sometimes heavy, rain is streaming onto eastern regions of the North Island, with Watches and Orange Warnings for heavy rain currently in force until Tuesday.  

Eastern areas of the North Island will continue to be impacted by onshore winds until Wednesday, which means overcast days with rain, more persistent about higher ground.  

The upper half of the North Island and inland areas of the South Island will have light winds and clear skies this week, however during the afternoons showers could pop up with the potential of thunderstorms sprinkled in the mix. 

Temperatures will broadly be on the balmy side for most this week, with Christchurch forecast to reach 26°C on Thursday; that’s around 6°C warmer than their average daytime maximum for this time of year. However, Cantabrians will need to wrap back up on Friday as we’re forecasting a high of 14°C due to an outbreak of cooler air from the Southern Ocean. 

The arrival of the cool air is preceded by rain setting in on Fiordland on Wednesday. This band of rain quickly zips northward on Thursday and moves across the North Island on Friday. This system brings a big dip in temperatures, a burst of heavy rain, and there could be some quite blustery southerly winds in places. We recommend keeping up with our forecasts surrounding this system so you don’t get caught underprepared.

MetService communications.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

FORMULA 1 - Verstappen had to battle to win in Vegas

Max Verstappen, “It was a tough one.”

 

"Verstappen's Triumph: A Thrilling Night on the Streets of Vegas"

In the heart of the dazzling Las Vegas Strip, the Formula 1 circus unfolded a spectacle that will echo through the racing annals. Saturday night's Grand Prix on the brand-new Las Vegas Strip Circuit was nothing short of a cinematic thriller, marking the penultimate showdown of the season on a street circuit that transformed the race into a riveting drama.

The neon lights and the electric atmosphere set the stage for an action-packed affair. From the very start, the inaugural race on the Las Vegas Strip Circuit showcased Formula 1 at its finest on the challenging street circuit. The tight corners and high-speed straights tested the drivers' skills, bringing out the top-tier quality of these racing gladiators.

At the center of this racing opera was Max Verstappen, who emerged as the hero of the night. Battling against his adversaries, Verstappen showcased exceptional prowess as he maneuvered through the twists and turns of the street circuit. The drama began early as he seized the lead from Charles Leclerc, only to face a five-second penalty for an aggressive move that forced his rival off the track.

The race unfolded with a series of incidents and Safety Car periods, creating a narrative as unpredictable as the Vegas Strip itself. Leclerc, showing resilience, went on a longer stint before a strategic tire change. However, a timely Safety Car intervention allowed Verstappen and other contenders to pit again, resetting the stage for a nail-biting finish.

As the race reached its climax, Verstappen, fueled by determination, stormed through the final laps, overtaking both his teammate Sergio Perez and the leading Ferrari of Leclerc. The City of Lights witnessed a landmark victory as Verstappen crossed the chequered flag, securing his supremacy on the streets of Vegas.

Behind the podium battles, a fierce contest unfolded for the remaining positions. Esteban Ocon's remarkable rise netted fourth place, with George Russell, despite a time penalty, securing fifth for Mercedes. Lance Stroll, Carlos Sainz, and Lewis Hamilton, who clashed at Turn 1, completed the top positions in this adrenaline-fueled race.

However, the night wasn't without its casualties. Lando Norris suffered a heavy crash early on, while Yuki Tsunoda and Nico Hulkenberg faced technical troubles and retired in the closing stages. The Las Vegas showdown provided a breathtaking spectacle, a crescendo to three days of high-octane racing under the dazzling lights.

As the engines fall silent in Vegas, Formula 1 now shifts its focus to the Yas Marina Circuit for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The echoes of the Las Vegas Grand Prix will linger, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the final act in this gripping championship saga. The lights of Vegas may have dimmed, but the fervor of Formula 1 burns brighter than ever.

Reflecting on his race after hopping out of the car, Verstappen said: “It was a tough one.”

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.