17 Jan 2022

Cyclone Cody: Swells could continue tomorrow around North Island

6:07 pm on 17 January 2022

Cyclone Cody is still causing some swells around New Zealand, even as tsunami warnings from the volcanic eruption in Tonga have receded, MetService says.

Turbulent sea at Mount Maunganui Main Beach,  Tauranga New Zealand

A weather buoy near the Bay of Islands recorded waves close to 7 metres over the weekend. Photo: 123rf

While Cody has moved further east, there are still large swells and strong winds around parts of the north and east coast - and their effects could continue tomorrow.

Meteorologist Luis Fernandes said the swells have been affecting the north of the North Island since Saturday.

A weather buoy near the Bay of Islands recorded waves close to 7m over the weekend.

Beaches along the North Island's east coast are closed today due to high swells from the cyclone.

Surf Life Saving eastern manager Chaz Gibbons-Campbell said there was no beach to walk on in Whangamatā due to king tides pushing waves up to the dunes.

Guards are patrolling beaches from Cathedral Cove to Gisborne, to ensure swimmers get the message - don't go into the water.

"There's actually smaller waves but there's still a lot of water moving. So we still urge caution for people when the conditions do ripen up a little bit, is that they still take care in the water.

"There are still a lot of rips which can catch people out, that will be going through the course Tuesday, Wednesday and even Thursday."

The beaches are even hazardous for people walking their dogs due to the power of the waves, Gibbons-Campbell said.

MetService said swells may still produce rips around Gisborne and Hawke's Bay tomorrow.

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