Wellington residents are still being urged to stay well away from the coast, as the danger from massive swells has not yet passed.
Wellington Regional Emergency Management (WREMO) regional manager Jeremy Holmes says waves peaked on Tuesday night at 6.5 metres - but another high tide is expected at 9.30am on Wednesday, bringing more massive swells.
"As at 5am today Wellington City Council’s Roading Team advised that they had seen overtopping at Breaker Bay, Owhiro Bay and Moa Point and they were clearing debris," he said.
Roads have been closed along Wellington’s coast, including between Happy Valley Rd and Red Rocks. A swathe of Breaker Bay Rd has also been closed, and numerous homes evacuated due to the threat of the swells.
Holmes says people must stay well clear of the water, beaches and away from the coast to avoid putting themselves and rescuers at risk.
"We will update residents as soon as possible once assessments have been carried out in all affected areas, and we have received an updated forecast from MetService."
Road crews are expected to begin clearing debris and assessing structural damage at first light.
