Aurorae have been seen as far north as Auckland this morning as Earth is slammed by the largest solar storm in decades.
The National Space Weather Prediction Centre issued the first severe geomagnetic storm watch in 20 years following a series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections that began on Wednesday.
Andrew Dickson told 1News he heard about the "big geomagnetical storm on its way."
"I thought, it might be in the morning, or it might be tonight."
Dickson, who lives in Ranfurly, was walking between two units on his section early this morning when he spotted the aurora.
The most recent event of similar or greater magnitude occurred in October 2003. (Source: 1News)
"It was probably 10 times more vivid than anything I've seen before."
Normally, to capture an aurora on an iPhone, Dickson said a 10-second exposure was required.
"Even then, it would still be really quiet."
This morning, Dickson used a three-second exposure to capture the light show.
"It was visible to the naked eye, really bright, so clearly its a huge storm."
Did you see the aurora this morning? Send your photos to news@tvnz.co.nz
Astronomer Rob Davison told 1News that New Zealand could be in for some good aurorae over the weekend.
"Based on forecasts, the material is likely to arrive here sometime on Saturday, with the best chances for aurorae visible from New Zealand likely to be overnight from May 11 to May 12."
He said there were a few key things to remember for anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of an aurora.
"Increased solar activity improves the chances of a good auroral display, but it does not guarantee it.
"Aurorae can also peak and then disappear in a relatively short amount of time.
"Getting as far south and as far away from light pollution as possible will improve your chances.
"People should also remember to wrap up warm, as they may need to be outside for some time while their eyes adjust to the dark and while they wait for the peak of any display to appear."
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