Severe winds and heavy rain forecast as firefighters battle bushfires

Tuesday 27 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Tue 27 Oct, 6:50am

In this story Fire and Emergency New Zealand, MetService, New Zealand Defence Force

Strong winds and heavy rain are expected to lash parts of New Zealand. Firefighters are currently battling bushfires, including a vegetation fire that caused evacuations in Roxburgh. Northwest gales could reach 130km/h in exposed areas, while heavy rain warnings remain for the Tararua Ranges.

How they headlined it

4:45am6:50am

1. RNZTue 27 Oct, 4:45am

   Strong winds forecast to continue as firefighters tackle several bushfires (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldTue 27 Oct, 6:50am

   NZ Weather: 130km/h gales, heavy rain forecast as firefighters battle scrub fires (opens in new tab)