Emergency Operations Center Controller Gareth Wallis says this behaviour is putting lives at serious risk.
“Cyclone Vaianu is a potentially life‑threatening weather event. Coastal and harbour conditions can change rapidly as the cyclone approaches, making Moturiki Island (Leisure Island) a dangerous place to be.
“We are urging anyone on Moturiki Island to leave immediately and to stay away from coastal and exposed areas.”
Moturiki has been closed for public safety reasons.
“This is not the time for sightseeing or risk‑taking. Closures are in place to protect lives and must be respected,” Gareth adds.