Notifications

Tauranga City Council is asking residents to be aware and take precautions where necessary in anticipation of upcoming king tides between 24 to 31 December 2018 and again on 22 to 26 January 2019.
 
Mayor Greg Brownless wants people to be aware and plan accordingly, ‘We understand these events can be trying and hope a reminder can help you plan for these days as well prepare for potential impacts.’
 
A king tide is an exceptionally high spring tide, a natural phenomenon that occurs when solar and lunar cycles are in line. Every year there are two occasions where spring tides are highest; once during summer and once in winter. As these king tides are related to solar and lunar cycles they are predictable and not stormwater related. The effects can, however, be compounded by rain, storm and low pressure weather systems.
 
During king tides in previous years, we’ve seen that property, roads, walkways and paths in low lying areas of the city can become affected. Coinciding storm and or rain can aggravate issues and should be taken into account when considering preparing for or heading out during these events. Precautions may include placing sandbags and moving outdoor equipment in or higher up.
 
Tauranga City Waters have checked flap gates for stormwater pipes in all low lying areas. These gates allow pipes to shut when the tide is high, to reduce the volume of sea water that flows up drains. Gates are clear and will be checked again closer to the king tide.