Tornadoes Touch Down in Taranaki: Resident Captures Dramatic Footage

Powerful Tornadoes Strike Taranaki, New Zealand A series of tornadoes ripped through rural Taranaki, New Zealand, on June 11, 2025, causing damage and prompting a severe thunderstorm watch. The most dramatic footage comes from Lynley Johnson of Warea, who captured a tornado on video as it moved across the sea near her home. "We looked out the window and just watched it go across the sea in front of us," Johnson told the Herald. "It seemed big when you’re standing there watching it. We did hear it went across the farm, shifted a shipping container and trees and stuff. It was quite significant." Multiple tornadoes were reported across the region, according to Taranaki Civil Defence Emergency Management. The severe weather prompted warnings for residents to take precautions and stay safe. While damage was reported, there were no immediate reports of injuries. The event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable power of nature and the importance of preparedness during severe weather.