Heavy Swell Warning in New Zealand

A major heavy swell warning has been issued for New Zealand’s Wellington and Wairarapa coasts as a strong southerly system produces dangerous seas. Waves are forecast to reach 7–8 metres in Wellington and up to 10 metres in exposed Wairarapa areas, with the worst impacts expected around high tide, increasing risks of coastal inundation and wave overtopping.

A local state of emergency has been declared in Wellington, with evacuations ordered in some coastal zones and warnings to stay away from shorelines. Cook Strait ferry services have been cancelled due to hazardous sea conditions.