The Taupo District's Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to prepare for the arrival of ex-tropical Cyclone Cook.
MetService is warning the cyclone is expected to bring heavy rain and gale force winds to parts of the North Island including the Taupo District.
The worst of the weather is expected to hit later today.
Controller Tina Jakes said the activation of the emergency centre meant authorities were monitoring the event and poised to respond. She warned residents to take the event seriously and not take any chances.
"We need residents to be ready and prepared for a major storm, and that means having food and water supplies for at least three days along with other essentials," she said.