JUNE
PIPIRI 2025
Storm highlights gaps in emergency response
Mānawatia a Matariki
by Louise Parry
A powerful storm sweeping across Wellington and the Hutt Valley on 1 May brought intense winds, heavy rain, high swells, and disruptions—prompting Hutt City Council chief executive Jo Millar to acknowledge both successes and shortcomings in the emergency response. MetService issued a rare Red Strong Wind Warning for Wellington City, the Hutt Valley, and Porirua—gusts reached up to 160 km/h on Mount Kaukau, forcing the cancellation of flights and ferries, closing coastal roads, and knocking out electricity for around 8,000 properties. Swells approached 6m, impacting beaches and infrastructure. “I think we got a lot of things right, but I also think we got some things wrong,” Mrs Millar told a recent Eastbourne Community Board meeting. As a long-time coastal resident, she worried when water began sweeping above roadside kerbs. Among the mistakes made were a delayed decision on closing Marine Drive at Lowry Bay, and not keeping it closed until later the following day - “We probably could have done it a day earlier.”. Instead, commuters had to wait until the morning to hear if the road was passable. This highlighted gaps in communication, including with Metlink who she said could have issued transport updates earlier than they did. “I would rather you gave me the max info
As part of their Matariki celebrations last week Muritai School children dug up kumara from the school garden. Principal Stu Davenport says they scrubbed up nicely.
as early as possible… it’s better to know it might [happen] and get prepared—even if it doesn’t.” The council plans to refine warning systems by collaborating with the harbour master, improving text alerts, and more proactive social media messaging. Looking ahead, the council will review regional coordination through WREMO, gather public feedback, and roll out improved
protocols for road closures, emergency communication, and volunteer mobilisation. During the storm, volunteers completed more than 36 tasks - from safety assessments to assisting evacuations - highlighting the crucial role of community support, Mrs Millar said. “We are very, very lucky to have our volunteers. And I thank you all for your grace and patience,” Mrs Millar told the meeting.
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