Issued 6AM, 23 October 2025

MetService has issued a Red Strong Wind Warning and an Orange Heavy Rain Warning for Upper Hutt, in effect until 6PM, Thursday 23 October 2025. 

Severe gale northwesterlies are expected, with damaging gusts of up to 140 km/h in exposed areas. The strongest winds are forecast for Wellington, Wairarapa, and areas south of Carterton. 

KiwiRail has confirmed that all Wellington region rail lines will be closed between 8AM and 6PM on Thursday 23 October due to the Red Strong Wind Warning. As a result, all Metlink train services between Upper Hutt and Wellington are cancelled during this time. Passengers are encouraged to check metlink.org.nz for the latest service information and updates before travelling. 

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has also issued a ban on all outdoor fires and fireworks across the Wellington region. 

While Remutaka Hill Road may experience strong wind gusts and possible disruptions, the main impacts for Upper Hutt residents are expected to be wind damage and travel challenges as of this morning. 

Council teams will be out and about assessing any impacts to public spaces and infrastructure, and will continue to respond as needed to keep our community safe. 

At this stage, there are no reports of slips or surface flooding, and only minor impacts from wind have been observed. 

Council reception, Upper Hutt Libraries and H2O Xtream will remain open during their usual business hours.

JP services at Central Library will run as usual from 11AM to 1PM. However StoryTots and UH Ukes at Central Library won’t be going ahead.

What a Red Strong Wind Warning means 

A Red Strong Wind Warning is the highest level of alert issued by MetService. It signals a potential severe weather event that can cause significant disruption and damage. Immediate action should be taken to protect people, animals, and property. 

What to do to keep you and your whānau safe

• Stay indoors and away from windows. 
• Secure loose outdoor items such as bins, furniture, trampolines and others that could become airborne. 
• Bring pets inside or into safe shelter. 
• Avoid sheltering under large trees in the event of falling branches. 
• Postpone non-essential travel; if you must travel, check your route and public transport options beforehand. Do take extra care when driving, especially in high-sided vehicles. 
• Prepare for possible power outages. Charge devices and have torches ready. 
• If you rely on electricity for medical reasons, ensure you have an emergency plan and contact your power company and healthcare provider. 
• Treat all fallen power lines as live and stay well clear. 
• Keep emergency supplies such as food, water, and medications accessible. 
• Clear stormwater drains to help prevent surface flooding.
• Check in on neighbours and whānau, especially those who may need extra support.

If you are new to Upper Hutt and living rurally, please ring Council on 04-527 2169 to be added to our rural text alert. 

Who to contact to report information 

To report hazards or fallen objects on public access: email askus@uhcc.govt.nz or ring Council 04-527 2169 

To report life-threatening emergency or damage to private property: ring Fire and Emergency New Zealand on 111 and also your insurance provider. 

To keep up-to-date with power outrage: click here for information from Wellington Electricity.
https://www.welectricity.co.nz/outages

To keep up-to-date with weather event, follow MetService on their website. https://www.metservice.com/warnings/home#lower-north

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

23/10/25