Overview

• Wellington experienced its strongest winds in over a decade, with gusts reaching 150 km/h and 160 km/h recorded at Baring Head.
• MetService issued Wellington's first red wind warning, citing threats to life from flying debris, falling trees, and structural damage.
• Severe flooding in Christchurch and Selwyn District prompted states of emergency, school closures, and limited evacuations.
• Transport disruptions included widespread flight cancellations, suspended Cook Strait ferry crossings, and hazardous driving conditions.
• Large swells up to 11.5 meters were recorded in Wellington Harbour, compounding the storm's coastal impacts.