Wellington evacuates hundreds as 11 meter waves hit coast

Hundreds of residents were evacuated from coastal suburbs in Wellington, New Zealand, on Tuesday as powerful waves reaching up to 11 meters battered the southern coastline, prompting a state of emergency and widespread transport disruptions.

Authorities declared the state of emergency for Wellington's southern and eastern wards on Monday afternoon, issuing a mandatory evacuation order for waterfront properties in Ōwhiro Bay, Island Bay, Houghton Bay, and Breaker Bay. The order took effect at 9 a.m. local time Tuesday, with residents told to leave for higher ground. Officials warned that emergency services would not be sent into the evacuated zones, and those who remained would do so at their own risk. Police established cordons and closed most south coast roads, picking up some individuals walking along the waterfront and encouraging others to leave.

The severe marine conditions, driven by a fast-moving weather system, caused significant chaos. At Wellington Airport, wind gusts nearing 128 kilometers per hour led to the cancellation of approximately eight flights. A light aircraft from Golden Bay Air was tipped onto its side by a powerful gust while parked, though no one was...