Hundreds of residents were evacuated from vulnerable coastal homes in New Zealand’s capital on Tuesday as powerful swells reaching up to 11 metres (36 feet) hammered the shoreline, prompting authorities to declare a local state of emergency.

Wellington Mayor Andrew Little declared the state of emergency on Monday evening for the city’s Southern and Eastern wards ahead of the significant swell event.

A mandatory evacuation order took effect at 9am Tuesday for waterfront properties in Ōwhiro Bay, Island Bay, Houghton Bay, and Breaker Bay. Residents in these low-lying areas were urged to leave promptly, with warnings that conditions could become too dangerous afterward.

The heavy swells, driven by strong southerly winds and a powerful weather system, also brought gusts nearing 100–128 km/h at Wellington Airport. Several flights were cancelled, and at least one plane was reportedly blown over on the tarmac. Coastal pathways and facilities were closed, while Cook Strait ferry services faced disruptions.

As the day progressed, waves up to 11 metres were observed pounding the south coast, though initial reports suggest the worst impacts may have been less severe than the most pessimistic forecasts in some locations. By late Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Little lifted the local state of emergency after assessments showed a reduced risk due to a drop in wave frequency and energy.

Traffic cordons were removed, allowing residents to return to their homes and businesses, though authorities continued to advise caution. Emergency management officials noted the possibility of contaminated sea spray from wastewater outfalls being pushed closer to shore and urged people to limit exposure. Evacuation centres, supported by groups like the Salvation Army, remained available if needed.

No major injuries or widespread structural damage have been widely reported so far, but officials continue to monitor the situation. MetService had earlier issued heavy swell warnings for the Wellington and South Wairarapa coastlines, with forecasts of 8–11 metre waves in exposed areas. Similar swells affected other parts of the eastern coastline, though impacts were expected to be less severe in harbour areas like Petone and Eastbourne.

This event echoes a 2020 swell incident with 5.5-metre waves that caused notable damage and evacuations, but the current preparations appear to have mitigated risks effectively. Residents and visitors are still being advised to stay away from beaches and coastal edges, as residual dangerous conditions and sneaker waves could persist.

Civil Defence and emergency services remain on alert for any ongoing hazards. Further updates will be provided as the weather system moves through the region. (ILKHA)