State Of Emergency Declared As Fierce Winds And Wildfires Lash New Zealand

A state of emergency has been declared in Canterbury as New Zealand braces for another wave of violent weather, with red wind warnings issued across the South Island and lower North Island. Winds are forecast to reach up to 150 kilometres per hour, posing a threat to lives, property, and infrastructure.

The declaration was made by Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell on Wednesday afternoon, with mayors yet to be sworn in following local elections. The move ensures that Civil Defence has full emergency powers to coordinate response efforts.

“This is a significant weather event, and my thoughts are with everyone affected,” Mitchell said, confirming he would travel to Canterbury overnight, Stuff reported.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has activated its National Coordination Centre in Wellington to support the nationwide response.

Wildfires, Power Cuts and Fatalities

Fires are continuing to burn in Kaikōura and Hawke’s Bay, with Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) warning there is “little chance” of containing any new blazes in winds exceeding 100kph.

FENZ Region Manager Brad Mosby said the situation is highly volatile.

“The fires in Kaikōura have shown just how quickly wildfires can spread and how difficult they are to bring under control,” he said, as reported by Stuff

Helicopters have been grounded due to the extreme conditions, leaving ground crews to battle the flames. A total fire ban remains in place for Marlborough, Canterbury, South Canterbury, Wellington, and Hawke’s Bay.

Tragically, a man died in Wellington’s Mt Victoria after being struck by a falling branch. Thousands in Wairarapa have been without power since Tuesday, with lines companies warning that reconnection may take several more days.

Officials Urge Public to Prepare and Stay Indoors

Canterbury CDEM Group Controller James Thompson urged residents to take the warnings seriously.

“We’re expecting significant power outages and possible road closures. People should avoid travel, secure loose outdoor items, and stay indoors when the winds arrive,” Stuff quoted.

Despite the warnings, tomorrow’s planned mega strike will still go ahead, although organisers say some events will be held indoors.

Wellington on Alert, But No State of Emergency Yet

The Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMO) confirmed that while conditions are worsening, no state of emergency has yet been declared.

Manager Dan Neely said officials were “actively reviewing” the situation.

“Declaring a state of emergency has been considered, but the current conditions don’t yet meet the threshold,” he told RNZ.

Meanwhile, Wellington City Council announced that all libraries, recreation centres, pools, community centres, the zoo, and Begonia House will close on Thursday. Residents are being advised not to put rubbish bins out to avoid them becoming projectiles.

Flights, Roads, and Concerts Disrupted

Air New Zealand has issued travel flexibility for customers flying to or from Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin, allowing free rebooking within 48 hours.

“Safety is our highest priority. We will only operate flights if it is safe to do so,” an airline spokesperson said.

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) has also cancelled its Wellington concert scheduled for Thursday at the Michael Fowler Centre, citing safety concerns.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is urging motorists to reconsider travel plans, warning that winds of this strength can overturn vehicles and down power lines.

“We’ve had a stark reminder this week of the damage gale-force winds can cause,” said NZTA system manager Mark Pinner, as quoted by Stuff.

Several highways remain closed or partially restricted, including State Highway 7 between Springs Junction and Hanmer Springs, which suffered erosion from swollen rivers earlier in the week.

MetService Issues Rare ‘Red’ Warnings

MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane described Thursday’s forecast as “severe and dangerous,” warning that Northwesterly gusts of up to 150kph could strike Canterbury High Country, with 140kph winds expected for Wellington and Wairarapa.

“A red warning signifies that immediate action is required to protect people, animals, and property. Secure loose items, charge devices, and stay indoors once the winds arrive,” Makgabutlane said, Stuff quoted.

Heavy rain warnings are also in effect for parts of Westland, Otago, and the Canterbury lakes and rivers, raising the risk of flooding and landslides in already saturated areas.

Communities on Edge as Wild Weather Intensifies

As gale-force winds, wildfires, and flooding risks escalate, emergency services are stretched thin across multiple regions. Residents are urged to prepare for extended power outages, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow Civil Defence updates.

Authorities warn that Thursday’s weather could be among the most destructive of the year, with the potential for widespread damage and life-threatening conditions.