Colourised Infrared Satellite map show the structure of Cyclone Pam is now changing significantly as it begins the transition to Ex-Tropical Cyclone. Photo / MTSAT
Hawke's Bay Civil Defence are advising people to stay away from beaches with predictions of 6m waves until Wednesday.
Severe southeast winds and heavy rain are forecast for Wairoa from this evening.
Strong winds and heavy rain are also expected in the south of the region starting from tonight through to Tuesday evening.
Civil Defence Group Manager Ian Macdonald said the situation was being closely monitored and preparations made for heavy swells and strong winds in coastal Hawke's Bay.
People were advised to be prepared for periods without electricity by readying torches, candles and an alternative cooking source.
"People need to make sure their family emergency plans are up to date, with their properties prepared for strong winds, and a getaway kit all ready - just in case," he said.
Police said they had contingency plans in place for severe weather and heavy flooding.
Spectators at the Cricket World Cup match between West Indies and United Arab Emirates in Napier enjoyed good weather but kept one eye on the horizon as clouds steadily gathered, hoping it would not be rained out in the late afternoon.
HOY participants advised to delay travel
Participants at the Farmlands Horse of the Year Show (HOY, ) are advised to delay travelling to Hastings with 100mm of rain and 120km winds likely to hit between 1am and 2pm on Monday.
Horses are already onsite for the event, starting Tuesday, and plans are being made to get them under cover.
Those who arrive on Sunday will be directed to the nearby Hawke's Bay Racing Stables.
A team of 20 volunteers will be at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds overnight to make sure people and horses are safe.
There are also 8000 sq m of marquees at the grounds, which will be "locked down" at 6pm this evening until 2pm on Monday.
"We are advising people not to put goods in the marquees. I am very worried about the prognosis of the storm, however, I am confident we have robust systems in place that will ensure safety to all," Show director Kevin Hansen said.
The forecast for the rest of the show week is "brilliant".
More than 2600 horses and riders are expected to compete over the week.
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