The upper North Island is bracing themselves for the worst of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Heavy rain started falling this morning, but the worst of the weather is likely to hit on Monday and Tuesday.

Metservice Meteorologist Lewis Ferris says that Sunday is a warm-up day for the cyclone, with Monday into Tuesday bringing the worst weather and damage.

Lewis Ferris says the good news is we've had plenty of forewarning and time to prepare.

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