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POSTED ON: 8 June 2026 | IN: News, Notices & Updates

Heavy Swell warning – South Wairarapa coast

UPDATE: 9am Wednesday 10 June 2026

Mōrena South Wairarapa. It seems our coastline got off relatively lightly considering yesterday’s heavy swells.

Our roading team has inspected Cape Palliser Road and Lake Ferry Beach Access Road. There is some clean-up to do with logs and debris on the road surface.

At this stage, we anticipate that:

  • Cape Palliser Road will REOPEN from the Hurupi Stream (banana) bridge at 12pm today.
  • Lake Ferry Beach Access Road (accessed next to the hotel) will REOPEN this afternoon once the track has been cleared.

The heavy swell warning that was in place for the southern coasts of Wellington and Wairarapa has now been LIFTED by MetService.

While the warning period is over, people should continue to take care when driving on roads impacted by yesterday’s swells.

We will share new updates if any come to hand. Take care out there!

UPDATE: 5pm Tuesday 9 June 2026

MetService has issued a heavy swell warning for the Wairarapa (Turakirae Head to Mataikona) for 36 hours from midnight Monday 8 June until 12noon Wednesday 10 June. 

Southerly combined waves rising to 9.5-10.5 metres were expected late Tuesday morning, then easing Wednesday morning. Peak period 14 seconds. 

The swells currently being observed across the region are among the largest seen in many years. Please stay away from exposed coastal areas, as the threat posed by these waves is significant.

We are receiving reports of people heading to the coast and potentially putting themselves at risk. We strongly urge you to avoid coastal towns while the MetService weather warning remains in effect.

Due to the unusual combination of swell, gale force winds and high tides, we are encouraging our coastal communities to stay up to date and take action if they believe they are at risk. Please move to higher ground if you believe you are at risk, and call 111 if you are in an emergency situation.

We will continue to share updates as more details are confirmed.  

Here’s what you need to know

  • Cape Palliser Road is now CLOSED from the Hurupi Stream (banana) bridge and is likely to remain so for at least 24 hours.
  • Lake Fery Beach Access Road (accessed next to the hotel) is CLOSED due to swell.
  • Our roading team will be onsite early Wednesday morning (10 June) to assess any swell impacts. We will update the community following this and advise when roads will likely reopen.
  • Avoid coastal roads, particularly Lake Ferry, Ngawi and north – Mataikona, Castlepoint, Whakataki and Riversdale Beach. These swells could bring debris and surface flooding to roads.
  • Similar events in previous years have resulted in road closures, vehicle damage, and damage to coastal infrastructure.
  • Wellington City Council has declared a state of emergency and issued evacuation orders. This does not apply here in Wairarapa – none of the three councils have declared a state of emergency at this time.

Please follow the official advice

  • People living close to swell and surf exposed coastlines should be prepared for the possibility of waves flooding roads and leaving debris, with potential for road closures, and potential damage to property.
  • Please avoid the coastal areas unless travel is essential.
  • If you live on the coast and feel your safety or life is at risk, we strongly encourage you to self-evacuate inland.
  • Bring pets inside.
  • Check on neighbours who might need some support.
  • For road debris or damage contact us on 06 306 9611.
  • For serious, life safety issues, contact 111.  

Keep up to date