Red Alert Winds in Canterbury: Minister Urges Farmers and Foresters to Prioritize Safety

A rare and dangerous red-level wind warning has been issued for parts of New Zealand, prompting urgent safety advice from Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay. The warning, which affects Canterbury, Wellington, and the Wairarapa south of Carterton, has resulted in a state of local emergency in the Canterbury region, with severe gales causing widespread disruption.

Life-Threatening Winds Demand Caution

Minister McClay urged farmers, growers, and foresters across the affected areas to avoid all unnecessary risks and to heed MetService warnings as the high winds continue to lash the region.

"Flying items, falling trees, and toppled powerlines could pose a threat to life," Mr McClay said. "I encourage all those working on the land not to take any unnecessary risks and to put human safety first."

The rare red-level warning signals the most serious level of alert in New Zealand's weather system, reserved for events with significant risk to life and property. Winds in excess of 130 km/h have already been reported, damaging infrastructure and posing severe hazards to those outdoors.

Damage Response Should Wait Until Safe

The Minister emphasized that farmers should not attempt to clear fallen trees or repair damaged infrastructure, including irrigation systems, until the red warning is lifted.

"Farmers should wait until wind warnings have been lifted before attempting to repair or move damaged farm irrigators, or to clear toppled trees," he said.

Authorities on Alert, Support Available

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is actively monitoring the situation and working closely with Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) teams throughout the country. MPI staff are coordinating responses and providing support to rural communities as conditions evolve.

"My thoughts are with everyone hunkering down until the winds ease," Mr McClay said. "We are working across agencies to respond quickly and support affected communities."

Those in need of urgent support are encouraged to contact their local Rural Support Trust by calling 0800 787 254. The Trust provides confidential and practical assistance to those impacted by adverse events.

Urgent Safety Advice for Rural Communities

Authorities are advising people in the warning zones to:

• Stay indoors and away from windows during high winds.

• Avoid travel unless absolutely essential.

• Prepare for power outages by charging devices and securing emergency supplies.

• Keep away from trees, powerlines, and other potential falling hazards.

Broader Weather System Impacting the Country

The extreme winds are part of a broader severe weather system moving across central and southern New Zealand. The system is also expected to bring heavy rain and thunderstorms, adding further risks in exposed areas, particularly in hilly and mountainous terrain.

Emergency services remain on high alert, with road closures and power cuts already reported in several districts. Crews are being deployed to restore infrastructure as soon as conditions allow.

A Reminder of Climate Vulnerabilities

This event underscores the vulnerability of rural industries—particularly agriculture and forestry—to climate-related disasters. With increasing frequency of extreme weather events in New Zealand, preparedness and strong inter-agency coordination are essential.

The Government's message is clear: human life must come first. Damage to equipment and crops can be repaired—but only if lives are protected.