Queenstown Evacuated as Winter Storm Triggers Flooding on South Island

Residents in Queenstown have been evacuated from their homes overnight as a severe winter storm batters New Zealand's South Island, raising concerns about land stability. Firefighters tackled 16 flooding-related calls, mostly involving water entering homes across Queenstown, Frankton, Arrowtown, Lake Hawea, and Wanaka.

Evacuations were prompted by fears about ground stability in the Fern Hill and Bowen Street areas, affecting residents and a campground. However, some evacuees and emergency vehicles were unable to reach Queenstown due to flooding and debris completely blocking the Fern Hill roundabout. This key intersection was closed for several hours overnight.

The storm brought heavy rain, which had eased by early morning. Authorities urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel due to surface flooding, debris, and other hazards on the roads, particularly at night. The Crown Range Road has been closed indefinitely due to the adverse weather. Road crews are working to clear blockages across the district, including at the One Mile roundabout and Gorge Road.

Residents in Fernhill, Sunshine Bay, Queenstown CBD, and Frankton Road have been advised to conserve water. The storm highlights the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events, prompting emergency responses and infrastructure closures.

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Sometimes in inclement weather people continue to go out and drive around. It just puts everybody more at risk including our firefighters.