News update 26 June 2026

 SEVERE WEATHER UPDATE 26 JUNE

1.30PM UPDATE
That wind isn't letting up just yet, so please continue to take care out there.

The worst of the rain is also forecast to come from around 6pm onwards, so if you can, try to take the rain precautions listed below before dark.

Flights are still impacted into Wellington Airport. Please contact your airline for more information.

Power outages have hit parts of the Hutt Valley, Johnsonville, Plimmerton and Pukerua Bay. Wellington Electricity are working hard to get this restored as quickly as possible today. You can follow WE safety advice for what to do in an outage: https://www.welectricity.co.nz/.../reporting-a-power-outage

Wellington Water reports the Moa Point wastewater treatment plan's short outfall is currently discharging untreated, unscreened wastewater into Tarakena Bay, and it is likely to be travelling around the coastline.
Check https://www.lawa.org.nz/ before visiting beaches along the south coast.

Follow NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi - Wellington for up to date information about local highways. The sea spray and swells has been impacting the urban motorway, while the shared path between Ngauranga and Petone (Te Ara Tupua) is closed.

Follow your local council for local road information.

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9.30AM UPDATE
We have started to see some impacts from the weather warnings today, including power outages, flights and ferries cancelled, and reports of trees downs and roofs lifting.

We are working closely with our local councils and emergency services partners to actively monitor and manage the situation. Please continue to follow their channels for local updates.

We urge the public to take caution if they are out and about today, and to stay home if possible.

Rain
Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.
Take extra care on the roads.
 Clear stormwater drains to help prevent surface flooding if it is safe to do so.

Wind
Strong wind gusts like these have already started damaging trees and powerlines.
We would encourage people to avoid parks and reserves due to the danger presented by falling trees and branches.
 If you haven’t already and it is safe to do so, you should secure any outdoor items like wheelie bins, trampolines and outdoor furniture that may blow around.

Swells
 Take care walking or driving along roads exposed to the sea today. There is a risk of water and debris coming onto the roads around Wellington and Wairarapa's south coast.
We would strongly encourage people to not head out on their boats today.