Wind & storms
Wellington is renowned for its wind. The wind-funnelling effect of Cook Strait leads to a high frequency of strong winds around the southern coast, while the rugged topography results in local variations in wind direction and strength.
Wind records from Cape Palliser and Castlepoint show that the Wairarapa coast is among the windiest spots in New Zealand.
- Wellington region weather and climate
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The Wellington region has a temperate climate, with moderate rainfall, relatively mild daytime temperatures, and infrequent frosts. Annual rainfall ranges from 800 mm in the eastern Wairarapa, to 7000 mm in the high parts of the Tararua Range.
- Climate change
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As well as natural variations in the region's weather, human-induced climate change (often called global warming) is expected to increase the occurrence of hazardous events in the future.
- More information
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Some publications which contain more information about wind and storms.