Record Rainfall Triggers Massive Flooding and Landslides Across Wellington

Wellington City Council assesses the devastation of a record-breaking flood event that left 40 people homeless and impacted over 1800 properties.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 6:03 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Displacement and Housing Crisis

The scale of the human impact is significant, with approximately 40 people currently in temporary accommodation as their homes have been declared uninhabitable.

Property Damage: Nearly 700 properties were specifically damaged by flooding, heavy silt, debris, or landslides.

Dangerous Buildings: At least three homes have been issued with formal "dangerous building" notices due to the risk of structural failure from land instability.

Emergency Shelters: While the emergency accommodation at Whakamaru is set to stand down on May 1, the council is transitioning to a long-term "recovery response team" to manage the ongoing housing crisis.

Suburbs Worst Affected