New Weather Radar Site Selected for Nelson Tasman Region

The New Zealand Government has chosen a site near Drumduan’s Horoirangi Peak for a new weather radar to serve the Nelson Tasman area. The radar, to be installed 630 metres above sea level and 15 kilometres northeast of Nelson City, will use modern Doppler dual‑polarisation technology to deliver more accurate rainfall estimates and enhanced monitoring. MetService has confirmed the system should be operational by mid‑2027. The project, fast‑tracked with a commitment of up to $5 million, follows severe July 2025 weather events and a history of high‑impact flooding that has prompted five states of emergency in the region since 2011. Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell and Associate Transport and South Island Minister James Meager highlighted the radar’s role in improving short‑term forecasting, rainfall mapping, and community preparedness for future disasters.