Boxing Day Alert: Severe Thunderstorms and Large Hail Threaten New Zealand
By Lions Roar News Weather Desk
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND (December 26, 2025) – New Zealanders heading out for Boxing Day sales or holiday travel are being urged to “batten down the hatches” as MetService issues a series of Severe Thunderstorm Watches across both the North and South Islands. Forecasters are warning of localized downpours, damaging wind gusts, and the potential for large hail exceeding 20mm in diameter.
The wild weather follows a turbulent Christmas Day that saw over 200 lightning strikes hit the lower South Island, and authorities warn the instability is set to peak this afternoon.
🏔️ South Island: Cold Front Brings Hail Risk
A cold, unstable air mass moving over the South Island is expected to trigger intense storms across eastern and southern regions.
- Regions Affected: Christchurch, Canterbury Plains, North and Central Otago, Dunedin, Clutha, and Southland.
- Timing: The watch is in effect from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. today.
- Threat Level: Moderate risk of severe thunderstorms producing hail larger than 20mm, which can damage crops, vehicles, and property.
- Rainfall: Intense bursts of rain could lead to surface flooding in these areas.
🏝️ North Island: “Wild Boxing Day” for the North
In the North Island, a moist and unstable air mass is moving east, bringing the threat of “localised downpours” and blustery conditions to holiday hotspots.
- Regions Affected: Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Rotorua.
- Timing: Heavy rain and thunderstorm watches are active from 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Threat Level: Downpours of 25mm to 40mm per hour are possible, along with wind gusts up to 90 km/h.
- Impact: Motorists on the roads today are advised to expect reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions.
⚠️ Safety Advice for Holiday Travelers
With thousands of Kiwis on the move for the summer break, Waka Kotahi (NZTA) and MetService are advising extra caution:
- Check the Radar: Monitor the MetService Rain Radar before starting long journeys.
- Driving Conditions: If you encounter heavy rain or hail, pull over safely if visibility becomes too poor. Avoid driving through surface flooding.
- Secure Loose Items: If you are camping or have outdoor Christmas decorations, ensure they are secured against high wind gusts.
- Flash Flooding: Be aware that narrow valleys and low-lying urban areas are at risk of rapid water rises during downpours.
