Wellington Airport has cancelled approximately 200 flights as severe southerly winds exceeding 50 knots batter the capital, leaving hundreds of travellers stranded. MetService has issued an orange-level strong wind warning for the region, with conditions causing widespread power outages, road closures, and flooding across the lower North Island.
Why are flights grounded at Wellington Airport?
The decision to ground most morning, afternoon, and evening services follows gusts nearing 100km/h, which Wellington Airport officials described as making operations “near-impossible.” While some pilots attempted to land despite the conditions, the intensity of the winds forced a widespread halt to air travel. Air New Zealand and Jetstar services are both impacted. Airport spokespeople advise passengers to contact their specific airlines for updates, as flight schedules remain subject to change until the weather eases.
What is the impact on regional infrastructure?
Beyond the airport, severe weather has disrupted travel and utility services across the Wellington region. According to Wellington Electricity, more than 4,000 properties are without power. Chief executive Greg Skelton stated that restoration efforts are currently hampered by wind speeds, which prevent crews from safely operating on poles and platforms. In some areas, power may not return until mid-next week.
Surface flooding and fallen trees have also blocked key transport routes. A tree fell across State Highway 2 near Kaitoke, and the Hutt City Council reported significant flooding at the Port Rd and Barnes St intersection. Additionally, Wellington Water confirmed that heavy rain forced an untreated wastewater discharge at Moa Point, with warning signs now placed along the affected coastline.
What happens next for travellers and residents?
Conditions are expected to remain volatile, with MetService forecasts indicating the winds will not ease until tomorrow. For travellers like Sharm Kanji, who saw his international itinerary disrupted, the immediate path forward involves seeking alternative ground transport or rebooking flights. Others, including visitors from Australia, are currently securing emergency accommodation while awaiting weather improvements.
Residents in the eastern hills, including Naenae and Wainuiomata, are advised to remain alert. The Hutt City Council has warned that the ground is saturated, keeping the risk of further slips high. As clean-up operations begin, authorities expect that safety will remain the primary focus, with power restoration crews prioritizing dangerous faults before moving to large-scale reconnects.
