Cyclone Vaianu
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
From Bishop Andrew Hedge
This weekend Cyclone Vaianu is forecast to cover much of the North Island, bringing gale‑force winds across the Diocese of Waiapu.
Please prepare first for your own safety.
Follow reliable weather forecasts such as MetService and MetService on YouTube.
Be ready to self‑evacuate if necessary, with the basics and a grab bag.
Stay alert to advice from your local Civil Defence group.
Keep tuned to Radio New Zealand for any state of emergency declarations.
Secondly, take time today and tomorrow to consider your parish facilities.
Are your buildings as safe as they can be if strong winds develop?
Are you prepared should you be asked to open your facilities as shelter for those displaced?
Do you have enough basic supplies—especially water and sanitation—for anyone who may need refuge?
Are you aware of elderly or vulnerable parishioners who may need support or a pre‑ and post‑storm check‑in?
Do you know which public facilities, marae, or schools in your area may also serve as places of refuge?
Finally, with these preparations in place, be reassured and offer reassurance.
Weather events in recent years have left physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional scars across our Diocese. These memories are often stirred when new storms approach. Be compassionate and patient. Provide calm, seek safety together, and in confidence, pray.
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Almighty God,
you have ordered creation from the beginning of the universe
and have brought life to all things.
With faith and hope we pray to you
as Cyclone Vaianu approaches.
We meet this storm with hearts and minds weary
from the relentless weather of recent years.
Hold us in your mercy.
Protect all from harm and from the loss of life.
Sustain the fragile and vulnerable in our communities.
Give strength to those who will rise to meet the needs of others.
We give thanks for all who work to preserve life
in times of danger and uncertainty—
for emergency workers, community leaders,
and neighbours who look out for one another.
Help us to trust in your presence in the midst of the storm.
Steady our spirits, calm our fears,
and guide us in wisdom and compassion.
Shelter us under the shadow of your wings,
and bring us safely through the days ahead
into peace, restoration, and renewed hope.
Through Jesus Christ, our refuge and our strength.
Amen.
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