Lightning forces Air NZ plane to turn around
A lightning strike last night forced an Air NZ plane to return to Auckland shortly after it took off for Tahiti.
The Boeing 789 aircraft left Auckland Airport as a thunderstorm from the Tasman Sea was bearing down on the region.
Passengers reported hearing a bang and felt the plane shake soon after takeoff at 7.16pm. The airline confirmed the aircraft returned to Auckland after encountering lightning.
“The aircraft will be inspected by engineers,” the company said. Passengers would be booked on alternative services.
The plane drama came after a cold snap hit the country and temperatures slid. Some 13,000 lightning strikes were recorded in 48 hours, with West Auckland residents treated to a spectacular lightning show last evening.
Niwa Weather projects “all of the South Island” will get temperatures that feel below 0C today due to strong southwesterly winds.
By 9pm tonight, central North Island towns will have the same shivery conditions.
Highs in Auckland and Tauranga today are forecast to reach 14C but heavy showers and thunderstorms are on the cards.
Hamilton will have a high of 13C with showers and the chance of thunderstorms.
The NZTA warned rain and strong winds could affect road conditions over the long weekend.
Bay of Plenty systems manager Rob Campbell urged motorists to be cautious.
“June 1 is also known as Gypsy Day, which means there will be a lot of stock movement across rural roads, so if you are travelling home be aware of this and expect minor delays.”
MetService meteorologist Hannah Moes said the showers and freezing temperatures would ease tomorrow night. For Auckland on Monday, Moes said: “There could be the odd passing shower in the morning, but it is a clearing trend.”