The Tauranga Emergency Operations Centre has released information on park closures and preparation for Cyclone Gabrielle.

"As we continue to track Cyclone Gabrielle closely, we have a number of updates to share with the community," says a Tauranga City Council spokesperson.

"Fergusson Park, Kulim Park, Beach Road Reserve, Omanu Beach carpark and Harrisons Cut Beach Accessway are closed. This includes freedom camping areas in those parks.

"People must avoid walkways due to falling branches in these areas and take care when moving under any trees."

Te Ara Tūtanga (Mauao base track) and Moturiki (Leisure Island) remain closed due to high swells.

"As at 1.45pm, there are still a large number of people accessing the Mauao base track and Moturiki, for various reasons, including to view the larger than normal waves that are forming," says a Tauranga City Council spokesperson.

"Please stay away from this area for the duration of the storm and until the tracks are reopened."

Larger than normal waves forming at Mount Maunganui on Monday afternoon. Photo: David Hall.

"For residents who live in low-lying areas prone to flooding, including the coast and harbourside, there is a risk of storm surge flooding and erosion, so we advise taking steps to protect family and your home."

For advice and information, check The Get Ready website.

If residents have a basement garage or basement carpark in an apartment building that has flooded in the past, it is possible this may happen again.

"Please move vehicles and other items out of basements and move them to higher ground."

For anyone who feels unsafe, it is recommended to stay with family and friends if possible, in the first instance. If any evacuation of people is required, Bay of Plenty Civil Defence will issue instructions and emergency shelters will be activated if required.

"It is strongly recommended that each person has a grab bag ready with enough supplies for a few days in case we experience any power outages and disruption to our roading and water networks," says a council spokesperson.

This includes having enough supplies to care for pets.

More information about how to get ready can be found on Tauranga City Council website.

If people haven't already, cyclones bring high winds, and items like trampolines should be tied down with outdoor furniture including barbecues secured. Also make sure drains are clear.

"Our pound will be closed to the public today, but rest assured our team are taking care of the animals housed there," says a council spokesperson.

The Emergency Operations Centre continues to monitor the situation and is ready to respond to any issues as they arise.

Follow Bay of Plenty Civil Defence and MetService New Zealand for the latest weather and emergency updates, and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Waikato BoP for road closures and slips and Tauranga City Council for local information and updates.