Balanced News: Damaging easterly gusts expected as ex-cyclone approaches New Zealand

The tail of ex-Tropical Cyclone Lola has merged with another weather system and is approaching New Zealand, bringing heavy rain and damaging easterly gusts. Severe weather warnings are in place for Northland, Coromandel Peninsula, and Gisborne. The Auckland Harbour Bridge was briefly closed due to high winds, and fallen trees have caused power outages in Northland. While the weather is not expected to be as severe as in Vanuatu, people are advised to stay updated on the latest forecasts. Gisborne will experience heavy rain from Monday morning, and heavy rain watches are also in place for Tai Rāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay.