MetService meteorologist Lisa Murray gives an update on what to expect from Cyclone Gita. / Video by Mark Mitchell
Repairs only half done from the last cyclone, residents of a Tasman coastal settlement are bracing for their second cyclone in 19 days.
Cyclone Gita is expected to arrive about lunchtime today.
Residents of Ruby Bay were still cleaning up from Cyclone Fehi, which hit on February 1 and combined with a king tide to damage some of the sea wall and flooded houses.
Tasman District mayor Richard Kempthorne said the people of Ruby Bay had been the worst affected in Cyclone Fehi and residents had been contacted to make preparations. Many had been advised to stay with friends or family.
"People are much more apprehensive because they got an absolute pounding a couple of weeks ago."
Colin wades through floodwaters at his Ruby Bay home after the February 1 Cyclone Fehi. Photo / Tim Cuff
Kempthorne said only half the repairs had been done in the town. Strong winds were his biggest worry.
"I don't know that it [the repairs] makes it much more vulnerable. They are just very vulnerable if we get a very high tide and the wind in particular.
"What we've got to do is be as best prepared as we can. Everyone on the coast has been alerted.
More than 40 schools at the top of the South Island will be closed today. Seventeen early learning centres have indicated they also won't be opening today following severe weather warnings for the region.
Westland District mayor Bruce Smith urged people to stay off the roads.
"The high winds are a concern. People have still got time to ensure they've got fuel, batteries, food and water at home.
"They've got time to go and check their neighbours. If they have someone elderly down the road have a chat to them."
Ruby Bay residents were hit hard by Cyclone Fehi and are now in the path of Cyclone Gita. Photo / Tim Cuff
Okiwi Bay Holiday Park and Lodge owner Ian Montgomery in the Marlborough Sounds said a few campers remained this morning but they had all been told to clear out and bunker down by lunchtime.
He said rain had been steady since 3am but it had not gotten heavy yet.
"I'm not sure what we're going to get this time. It depends what direction the wind finally hits us on.
"We're just wondering what will happen after lunch and through tonight."
