Cyclone Gabrielle is moving offshore, but the danger isn't over in many parts of the North Island.
About 25,000 people have now been forced from their homes and about 225,000 are without power and communications.
Two people have been confirmed dead in Hawke's Bay and a volunteer firefighter is still missing and another remains in a critical condition in Auckland.
More than 200 military personnel are working to get supplies to many communities that have been cut off by the storm.
A National State of Emergency is in effect for Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, and the Tararua District.
Emergency Management Minister Kieran McAnulty told Mike Hosking he's worried about the situation in Hawke's Bay, particularly in Wairoa.
The severe weather has now eased in most parts of the country, but heavy rain could continue in parts of the lower North Island and upper South Island.
More large waves are possible in eastern regions.
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