New Zealand declares state of emergency in Wellington as severe flooding hits capital

A state of emergency has been declared in Wellington after heavy rainfall triggered widespread flooding, forcing evacuations, transport shutdowns and emergency response operations across parts of the city.

Authorities in New Zealand said continuous downpours over the past 24 hours overwhelmed drainage systems, causing rapid surface flooding in low-lying suburbs and disruption to major road and rail networks. Emergency services have been deployed across affected areas, assisting residents trapped by rising water and relocating families from high-risk zones.

Local officials warned that river levels remain dangerously high and further rainfall could worsen conditions. Residents in vulnerable areas have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and move to higher ground where possible.

Wellington’s central business district also experienced disruption, with several streets closed due to flooding and public transport services suspended or running at reduced capacity. Power outages were reported in some neighbourhoods as water affected infrastructure.

Meteorological services said the storm system is part of a larger weather pattern affecting parts of the lower North Island, with saturated ground increasing the risk of landslides in hillside communities.

Emergency management authorities have activated national coordination measures, with additional support teams being mobilised to assist local responders. The declaration of a state of emergency allows officials to access wider resources and enforce evacuations where necessary.

Prime Ministerial officials said the government is monitoring the situation closely and prioritising public safety and rapid response efforts. Recovery planning is expected to begin once conditions stabilise, but authorities warned that ongoing weather risks could prolong disruption.

For now, residents across Wellington are being advised to stay indoors where safe, remain alert to emergency alerts, and avoid floodwaters as the situation continues to develop.