alert
21 Apr: Weather watches remain in place across the Wellington Region, please avoid unnecessary travel and keep yourself informed. Stay updated

Kāpiti stormwater network holding up well, monitoring continues

21 Apr 2026

Kāpiti Coast District Council is continuing to keep a close eye on the complex weather system passing through the Wellington region.

Duty Controller Richard Hopkins says Council officers have been monitoring local rivers and streams and areas prone to flooding overnight and early indications suggest the district’s stormwater network is holding up well.

“A yellow heavy rain watch and yellow strong wind watch remains in place for Kāpiti through to 9am tonight, with a red heavy rain warning in place for Wellington and an orange heavy rain warning for the Tararua Range through to midnight.

“The ground is saturated. Kāpiti residents are advised to stay away from rivers, streams, and flooded areas, and to avoid travel across the Wellington region unless absolutely necessary.

“Driving through floodwater is dangerous. There are reported road closures across the Wellington region and disruptions to bus and train services.”

Mr Hopkins said while most of the intense rainfall has passed, rain is still expected and conditions remain unsettled so people do need to stay alert and keep an eye on official channels for updates.

“Council’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) continues to be on standby and will be activated if conditions change.”

Council crews are out this morning carrying out district-wide inspections. Otaihanga Domain remains closed today. Further information about Council services and facilities can be found on Council’s website www.kapiticoast.govt.nz

Kapiti residents are advised to contact Council on 0800 486 486 if they need to report a weather-related issue. If it is an emergency, residents are advised to call 111.

Where to access official information

Kāpiti Coast District Council website and Facebook page for localised updates and information

MetService New Zealand for updates

Wellington Region Emergency Management Office for emergency preparedness advice and information

Metlink's website or app for public transport updates

State Highway information and traffic updates via NZTA

For information about school closures people are advised to contact schools directly.

Graphic showing a cloud with wind and rain icons above the text “Weather information”, with Kāpiti Coast District Council branding on a blue background.