Urgent Travel Advisory: Aussies Beware When Visiting New Zealand

Heavy downpours and strong winds along the New Zealand coastline
Aircraft have been stationary at Wellington Airport.
READ MORE: Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne Weather Update: Rain Forecast End Times

Long lines have developed at a key airport.
New Zealand
The city’s operations were disrupted following 87 mph winds and heavy rainfall, which led to flight cancellations and caused widespread transportation issues.

MetService released a uncommon ‘red’ alert for Wellington on Thursday, indicating heavy downpours, substantial waves, and strong winds capable of causing damage with their intense speeds.

Travelers can anticipate disruptions in both arriving and departing flights within the city for multiple days.

‘A statement from an airport representative indicated that all departures and arrivals at Wellington Airport this afternoon have been canceled,’ they noted.

‘Intense gusts are anticipated to reach their zenith in Wellington during the afternoon and will gradually subside by tonight. Disruptions may persist over the next few days, hence we advise you to verify with your airline for detailed flight updates.’

Air New Zealand
canceled all arrivals and departures for Wellington up until 6 PM local time on Thursday, which includes international flights as well.

Jetstar and Sounds Air as well
canceled all trips for the rest of the day.

The terminals and runways at Christchurch and Auckland Airports are functioning normally.

The disturbance has caused a chain reaction affecting certain journeys, resulting in at least seven cancellations of flights from Christchurch to Wellington on Thursday.

Video acquired by New Zealand’s Herald reveals throngs of Jetstar travelers at Wellington Airport, with attendees forming a line that extends along the departure area’s hallway.

In a statement, the airline expressed gratitude to travelers for their comprehension and tolerance.

“The topmost priority for us is the safety of passengers, crew members, and airport personnel,” the statement read.

We reached out to impacted customers via text message with choices such as alternate flights, a complimentary shift up to seven days later, or a voucher equivalent to the cost of their unused trips.

Alex Marren, Air New Zealand’s chief operating officer, mentioned that the airline has been reaching out to passengers who have plans to travel to or from Wellington, providing them with flexible options.

The city council of the capital advised inhabitants to remain inside when feasible and exercise additional caution during travel because of the prevailing circumstances.

A statement posted on social media read, “The Wellington City Council has taken notice of numerous trees that have fallen throughout the city today.”

The notice stated that the Coastal Moa Point Road was shut down between the southern runway and the Spruce Goose café because waves and debris were obstructing the road.

A severe orange rain alert has been released by MetService for Wairarapa, located south of Masterton in the North Island.

It extends down to Canterbury on the South Island, encompassing Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.

The Selwyn District Council, which encompasses a region along the eastern coastline of the South Island, similarly announced a local state of emergency on Thursday morning as a result of extreme weather conditions.

Various institutions throughout the region have been shut down, and officials have cautioned about considerable waterlogging affecting multiple thoroughfares.