Wild New Zealand Storm Disrupts Transport, Leaves Thousands Without Power

Wellington: Heavy rain and strong winds disrupted flights, trains, and ferries, forcing the closure of roads across large parts of New Zealand's North Island today, while snapping power links to tens of thousands. According to Oman News Agency, Air New Zealand paused operations at Wellington, Napier, and Palmerston North airports, domestic media reported. More than 30,000 properties were without power, including about 10,000 customers in Wellington, said New Zealand authorities, who have urged motorists to stay off roads, while several schools were closed as emergency crews tackled widespread damage. The storm is forecast to bring heavy rains as it heads for the east coast of the South Island on Tuesday, the weather bureau said, with authorities warning of further disruption.