A state of emergency remains across Wellington as authorities manage the aftermath of severe weather, with residents urged to stay alert for ongoing risks despite improving conditions.
The update, issued at 3pm Friday, April 24, confirms that while heavy rain and wind warnings have been lifted, hazards such as landslides, flooding, debris and unstable structures remain a concern across affected suburbs.
Emergency services and response teams continue to operate in impacted areas, particularly in the southern suburbs, where flooding and slips have caused damage to homes and infrastructure. The Wellington City Emergency Operations Centre remains active.
Residents returning home are warned not to assume properties are safe. Officials advise leaving immediately if signs of renewed flooding or land movement appear, and to call 111 in urgent situations.
To support clean-up efforts, the council has introduced free, temporary waste disposal options for heavily affected households and businesses in suburbs including Berhampore, Island Bay, Kingston, Mount Cook, Mornington, Vogeltown, Brooklyn, Newtown, Ōwhiro Bay and South Karori.
A storm waste drop-off site at the Maranui landfill in Lyall Bay is open from Friday to Sunday, with proof of address required. Kerbside collection services, including heavy-duty bags and large-item pickups, are set to begin from Monday for eligible properties.
Officials say around 600 to 700 households are expected to need assistance, with a limited number of 1,000 large waste bags being distributed.
A Mayoral Relief Fund of $100,000 has also been launched to support those affected. The fund is administered by Wellington City Mission and is open for donations and applications.
Public transport remains disrupted, with the Johnsonville train line replaced by buses due to a landslip.
Authorities continue to urge caution, particularly around hillsides, parks and reserves, where saturated ground increases the risk of slips and falling debris.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official channels for updates and to remain vigilant as recovery efforts continue into next week.
