High winds and heavy swells forecast for tonight

Report from RNZ
High winds and heavy swells in the lower North Island could cause some disruption later today.

MetService has issued a strong wind warning for Wellington, Marlborough east of Seddon and the Marlborough Sounds from 8pm, warning damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures is possible.

Swell warnings are in effect for the southern coasts of Wellington and the Wairarapa.

Cook Strait ferries Interislander and Bluebridge cancelled some sailings today and Friday with Bluebridge cancelling an additional sailing on Saturday.

MetService said waves rising to six metres could be expected early on Friday morning, with waves peaking near seven metres.

However, Wellington Civil Defence Emergency Management said the swell heights are not forecast to be at the same level as a few weeks ago.

The Transport Agency is urging drivers to take extra care, saying road users need to be ready for strong winds, particularly drivers of high-sided vehicles (vans, trucks, campervans), towing vehicles, light vehicles, and motorcyclists.

“Caution will be needed on exposed routes like Wainui Saddle on State Highway 1 Transmission Gully and State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill. Cyclists and pedestrians should also exercise care on the Ngauranga to Petone shared path,” the agency said.