Tsunami advisory still in effect

The tsunami warning issued this morning has been downgraded to a threat advisory. Further waves can be expected to arrive on East Coast and Gisborne beaches throughout the afternoon. These are unlikely to be larger than 1metre and will be monitored and are not expected to pose any risk to residents or property.

Gisborne residents and those residing in communities along the East coast are advised there is no need to evacuate but people should stay away from the beaches while the potential of further waves still exist.

Tide gauges measured a 40cm wave on the East Cape and 25-30cm wave on the North Cape. Our advice is that further waves can be expected throughout the afternoon. . Civil Defence in Gisborne will continue to monitor the local situation and keep people updated.

The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management issued a Tsunami Warning following the Samoa earthquake at 0648 this morning.