Winter storm finally starts to ease

[DrLeftover]

The destructive storm that has swept over the country in the last 24 hours, damaging houses, roads and seawalls, as well as closing dozens of schools and leaving thousands without power, is finally easing.

The wind in Wellington last night reached near record levels of 200km/h, uprooting trees, downing power lines and ripping off roofs.

Many seaside roads around the harbour, particularly around the south coast, were damaged by huge waves.

The severe storm caused significant damage to the capital's electricity network and resulted in 30,000 homes and businesses without power at its peak.

About 5000 customers were still without power, with some rural residents not being reconnected for a few days.

Wellington Airport closed during the worst of the storm, but was now open, with some delays.

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