Site chosen for new Nelson-Tasman rain radar
Friday 2 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Christopher Luxon, MetService, James Meager
A site near Horoirangi Peak has been selected for a new rain radar to address weather forecasting gaps in the Nelson-Tasman region. The project, which has received up to $5 million in funding, is expected to be operational by mid-2027.
Key facts
6 facts
- New radar location: Horoirangi Peak, 15km northeast of Nelson
- Expected operational date: mid-2027
- Radar technology: Doppler dual-polarisation
- Government funding: up to $5 million
- Annual operating costs: approximately $260,000
- The radar will be the 11th in the country
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
A new rain radar for the Nelson-Tasman region will be located near Horoirangi Peak, approximately 15km northeast of Nelson. The site sits 630m above sea level overlooking Cable Bay. The project is expected to be operational by mid-2027.
The radar will use modern Doppler dual-polarisation technology to provide more accurate rainfall estimates and enhanced monitoring. This equipment will provide real-time information regarding wind fields, thunderstorms, hail, and precipitation. The new radar will be the 11th in New Zealand.
The location was chosen because it has the correct altitude and landowners willing to host the infrastructure. Ten sites were assessed, including locations in the Moutere, Motueka, and Kahurangi areas. Finding a site is challenging because a radar placed too high might miss weather near the ground, while one too low could be blocked by mountains.
The region currently relies on the Wellington radar, but its beam shoots over Nelson due to the curvature of the Earth. This creates a blind spot that the new radar will eliminate. The project follows severe weather events in Tasman and lobbying by local mayors.
The Government has fast-tracked the project with funding of up to $5 million. MetService will install and operate the radar, with annual operating costs expected to be around $260,000.
How it developed
- Fri 2 Oct, 5:54pmThe project has been fast-tracked with up to $5 million in funding following severe storms and flooding last July.
Where reports differ
- One report notes the Prime Minister announced the radar last year, while another states the announcement occurred last July.
Compiled from reports by The Press and RNZ.