Wellington: Schools were closed and flights cancelled as New Zealand's capital, Wellington, was hit by its strongest winds in over a decade on Thursday, while a state of emergency was declared in parts of the South Island after 24 hours of heavy rain.
According to Emirates News Agency, average wind speeds reached up to 87 kilometres an hour (54mph) in Wellington, marking the strongest winds since 2013. Gusts south of the capital in coastal Baring Head reached 160 kilometres an hour, as reported by the government forecaster.
The severe weather conditions forced the closure of educational institutions and led to the cancellation of numerous flights, causing significant disruptions. The declaration of a state of emergency in parts of the South Island highlights the intensity and impact of the heavy rainfall and strong winds experienced in the region.