News Release

New Zealand Latter-day Saints Urged to Prepare for Cyclone

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in New Zealand are being urged by Church leaders to prayerfully and wisely prepare for worsening weather conditions as Cyclone Gabrielle approaches the country this week.

Cyclone Gabrielle 13 February 2023. Image credit: earth.nullschool.net
Cyclone Gabrielle 13 February 2023. Image credit: earth.nullschool.net
Cyclone Gabrielle 13 February 2023. Image credit: earth.nullschool.net

The cyclone recently landed in New Caledonia, Norfork Island and some parts of New Zealand. More heavy rain and high winds are expected in the coming days.

This morning, Pacific Area President, Elder K. Brett Nattress, said, "We are praying for the people of New Zealand, Norfolk Island, and New Caledonia who have been or will be impacted by this cyclone. Please heed advice of government and other authorities and have a plan, be prepared, and stay safe.

Elder Nattress also said that the Church will work with government and other organisations to help communities after the storm.

"Our members are wonderful," Elder Nattress said. "We've seen time and again how they go out and lend a hand to neighbours after floods and other challenging circumstances. As followers of Jesus Christ, we do what we can to relieve suffering and to bring peace and hope."

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