How to protect your boat when bad weather hits
New Zealand weather does not give much notice. Cyclone Vaianu crossed the North Island in April 2026, and before that, Cyclone Gabrielle tore through in February 2023. In both cases, boats on rope moorings and trailer boats stored outside took the worst of it. But you do not need a named cyclone to cause serious damage. A fast-moving southerly or a surprise overnight blow can do plenty.
The good news is that most storm damage to boats is preventable. What separates the boats that come through unscathed from the ones that do not is usually preparation done before the weather arrives, not during it.
Watch the warnings
MetService issues three levels of marine weather warnings. Outlooks flag the possibility of rough conditions three to six days out. Watches confirm a threat is developing. Warnings mean it is happening.
When MetService issues an orange warning, take it seriously and start preparing. A red warning calls for immediate action. At that point, the priority is getting your boat secure.
For real-time marine forecasts, Maritime NZ broadcasts on VHF Channel 16 at scheduled times throughout the day, including 0133, 0533, 0733, 1333, 1733, and 2133 NZST. Coastguard also runs continuous NowCasting broadcasts on Channels 20, 21, 22, and 23 across many boating areas. If you have a VHF on board, check in well before conditions build.
The Coastguard Boating App is another practical option for checking forecasts and logging a trip report before you head out. Our roundup of the best boating apps for Kiwis covers other tools worth having on your phone.
Boats on a berth or in a marina
A marina berth with strong pilings offers good protection from storm surge, but only if your lines are up to the task.
Double all mooring lines before the weather arrives. Leave enough slack to allow for rising water, but not so much that the boat can slam against the dock. Fit cross spring lines from bow to stern and secure them high on the pilings. Anywhere a line runs over a rough edge, wrap it with rubber hose, old rags, or tape to prevent chafing. Fit extra fenders on any side that could contact the dock or a neighbouring boat.
Check with your marina ahead of time if you are unsure about your arrangement. Some marinas have specific storm protocols, including designated tie-down points or staff assistance when a red warning is issued.
Boats on a mooring
Rope moorings carry the most risk during severe weather. After every major storm in the Auckland region, Coastguard reports boats breaking free and coming ashore. There are around 3,500 boats on rope moorings in Auckland alone.
Check your mooring certification is current and inspect the full system regularly, not just at the start of summer. Focus on chafe points where the pendant passes over the bow, and look for corroded shackles and O-rings. Any chain or line going over the bow needs to be positively retained. If it can jump free in a swell, it will.
If you have time before the storm hits and your mooring is in an exposed location, consider moving the boat to a marina or a sheltered bay. A few hours of work beforehand beats a salvage call afterwards.
Dry stack storage
If your marina offers dry stack, get an arrangement in place and talk to your operator about their storm protocol. Contact them as soon as a warning is issued and confirm their bung policy. If your boat is left in an outside stack with the bung in, it can fill with rainwater. If the bung is out, confirm the boat cannot be relaunched without your knowledge. Sort this with your operator before the event, not during it.
Trailer boats
If you can get your boat inside a garage or shed, do it. A trailer boat under cover is the safest place it can be during a storm.
If you must leave it outside, remove as much canvas as possible, including covers, biminis, and cockpit enclosures. Anything that catches the wind can tear free or drag the whole trailer. Lower the jockey wheel and use wheel chocks or a tyre lock so the trailer cannot shift. Check that any trees nearby are in good health, and have overhanging or dead branches trimmed.
General steps for any boat
Whatever your storage situation, these apply across the board:
- Remove everything that can come loose. Gear left on deck becomes a projectile. Fenders, lines, fishing rods, cushions, boarding ladders, and any electronics not built into the boat all need to come off.
- Anything that cannot be removed should be tied down firmly or stowed below.
- Seal hatches, portlights, and companionways. Duct tape along seams adds a useful extra layer when conditions are going to be severe.
- Check the bilge pump is working and the bilge is clear before the weather arrives.
If you get caught out at sea
If a storm builds while you are underway, reduce sail early, before the wind forces your hand. Reef the mainsail as conditions build past 20 knots and roll in the headsail to keep control.
Contact Coastguard on VHF Channel 16 and give them your position, crew numbers, and your situation. Keep them updated as conditions change. If things deteriorate beyond your ability to manage, activate your EPIRB or PLB immediately. It is your fastest link to rescue services.
Make sure everyone on board has a lifejacket on and is clipped in if jacklines are rigged. For more on managing a serious onboard emergency, see our guide on what to do if your boat starts sinking.