Cyclone Vaianu hits New Zealand

Cyclone Vaianu crossed the coast near the Maketu peninsula on Sunday, bringing torrential rain and large swells that have damaged coastal infrastructure.

While the storm bypassed Auckland, the country’s most populous city, it has caused significant disruption in Hawke's Bay and the eastern North Island.

Emergency services are working to restore power to thousands of homes and clear roads blocked by fallen trees and landslides.

Authorities have warned that the risk of further flooding remains high as the storm moves through the region.