Full Breakdown
Hawke's Bay Response to Cyclone Vaianu: A Divided Perspective
4/13/2026, 3:43:57 AM
Decision Against State of Emergency
Hawke's Bay Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst declined to declare a state of emergency in response to Cyclone Vaianu, asserting that the conditions did not warrant such a measure. Hazlehurst stated, “We didn’t need a state of emergency. When you make a call like that, it means you are under the pump,” emphasizing that forecasts indicated the cyclone would be a category 2 event primarily affecting wind and ocean swell rather than rainfall. The Civil Defence team, led by controller Juanita Savage, monitored the situation and determined that the criteria for activation were not met.
Regional Leaders' Perspectives
Contrasting Hazlehurst's stance, other local leaders, including Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum and Central Hawke's Bay Mayor Will Foley, supported early action based on available information. Schollum noted that the region was “lucky” as the cyclone's path shifted eastward, reducing its impact. Foley remarked on the importance of learning from past events, specifically referencing Cyclone Gabrielle, which had devastating effects in 2023. He stated, “I’d rather do that than not do enough,” highlighting the need for proactive measures to ensure public safety.
Community Preparedness and Response
Local officials stressed the importance of community preparedness. Schollum reiterated the message to take warnings seriously and act early, while Napier Mayor Richard McGrath expressed satisfaction with the response, stating, “Once bitten, twice shy - everyone underestimated Gabrielle.” He acknowledged that the community had learned valuable lessons from previous weather events, which informed their response to Vaianu.
Impacts and Official Statements
While the cyclone's impact was less severe than anticipated, areas such as Wairoa and Mahia experienced power outages affecting over 1,000 properties, with fallen trees causing road closures. Minister of Emergency Management Kieran McAnulty acknowledged the anxiety many residents feel regarding extreme weather events, stating, “I understand many people still experience extreme weather event anxiety.” He affirmed that the Civil Defence team's response was appropriate given the risk level.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the overall positive feedback from local leaders, Hazlehurst's refusal to declare a state of emergency faced criticism. Some community members and officials questioned whether the decision could have jeopardized safety, particularly in light of the lessons learned from Cyclone Gabrielle. The differing opinions highlight a tension between caution and the desire to avoid unnecessary alarm.
Conclusion: Lessons for the Future
As the region reflects on its response to Cyclone Vaianu, local leaders urge the community to remain vigilant and prepared for future weather events. The emphasis on learning from past experiences aims to enhance resilience in the face of an increasingly unpredictable climate.