Cyclone Vaianu

Emergency alerts related to severe weather warnings from Cyclone Vaianu are now being sent to mobile phones.

A plethora of weather warnings and watches have been issued by MetService, and local civil defence authorities are now sending some of these out as an emergency alert.

That includes a red severe wind warning for Coromandel Peninsula and Hauraki, from 1am to 6pm on Sunday.

"Put safety first. Do not take any chances. Secure loose objects. Prepare for power outages," the alert advises.

"Avoid all travel if possible. Bring pets indoors and move livestock to shelter where possible. Listen out/look for signs of land instability. Stay away from beaches. Be prepared to evacuate. Keep a grab bag close."