The Wellington Region Civil Defence Emergency Management Group (WRCDEM) said the centre was stood up to co-ordinate the response after the severe weather.
Access to essential supplies, medical needs and welfare assistance would be provided.
Communities isolated
The “significant” impacts from the wild weather around the region remained a danger, particularly around South Wairarapa.
WRCDEM said the Turanganui Bridge on Lake Ferry Rd has been “wiped out” on its northern side, which isolated several communities.
“Initial assessments indicate that repairs could take until midweek to establish access, depending on the current weather conditions and access to rock material.”
Locals are encouraged not to go near the affected area because it is “extremely dangerous”, and disruptions could impact the crews working in the area.
Police will be on-site to encourage the community to adhere to this safety advice.
WRCDEM said slipways are operating, and access to Martinborough has been reestablished via Longbush/Hinekura. The bridges are not expected to open today.
Multiple road closures remain in place, and some communities in the Wairarapa region have been cut off. Photo / Mark Mitchell
“We strongly remind our communities not to become complacent. The ground remains heavily saturated, and there is a significant amount of debris on roads across the district.”
WRCDEM said slips were still likely in high‑risk areas.
“Please drive to the conditions and remain extra vigilant. There may also be damage to land and infrastructure that has not yet been identified.”
Locals are still advised to avoid unnecessary travel, self-evacuate if needed and follow official updates.
This morning, hundreds remained without power after wind and rain lashed the capital.
A Wellington Electricity spokesperson said it could be tonight before electricity supplies are restored.
Meanwhile, Wellington Airport is running as normal today, although some flow-on disruptions may remain as airlines work to clear the backlog of travellers disrupted by yesterday’s weather.