Crowds gathered on Elbow Beach today to watch the waves from the incoming Hurricane Gonzalo.

People took to the sands armed with cameras from the early morning to capture the surf.

Residents were also still on Warwick Long Bay as late as 2.30pm.

The authorities are urging people to remain safely indoors ahead of the winds picking up, as this could happen quickly.

The emergency services also ask that people stay off the roads to ensure they are as clear as possible in case they need access.