Fierce Storm Disrupts Flights, Shuts Schools Across New Zealand

New Zealand's capital, Wellington, was battered by its strongest winds in over a decade on Thursday, causing widespread flight cancellations, school closures, and ferry service disruptions.

Emergency declarations were also issued in parts of the South Island following a day of relentless heavy rainfall.

According to the national meteorological agency, wind speeds in Wellington averaged 87 kilometers per hour, marking the highest recorded level since 2013.

In Baring Head, a coastal area south of the capital, wind gusts reached a staggering 160 kilometers per hour.

Authorities issued red-level wind warnings throughout Wellington, prompting the closure of Wellington International Airport by the afternoon. All ferry connections between the North and South Islands were suspended.

Several local schools and Victoria University of Wellington announced closures due to safety concerns caused by the severe weather.