Weather poor but rocket launch still possible

The weather is poor but hopes are high that today will see Rocket Labs successful test launch.

The launch is expected between 1pm and 5pm today, depending on technical and weather conditions.

The previous three attempts have been "scrubbed" - with yesterday's launch held just 12 minutes before the scheduled launch.

Visibility is poor from a Nuhaka viewing site. Although the Peninsula is visible, heavy clouds threaten to obstruct the view for eager spectators gathered at the site.

Geoff Wilson said it had been a nice surprise to find the rocket launch was happening.

"We picked it up on the radio, really just by chance,"he said.

He and his partner were on holiday from the UK and had been staying in Gisborne, but were popping down to wairoa when they found out about the launch.

"I couldn't believe there was actually a space project happening in New Zealand, and so close to where we were staying.

"It seemed silly not to come by."

There are less spectators waiting at the coastal site than on previous days