New Zealand’s North Island has in recent days been bettered by Cyclone Gabrielle which, although having eased, has left many displaced and has necessitated a huge clear-up operation.
At least three people are known to have been killed, the BBC reports, with coastal communities worst affected. Around 250,000 people are understood to be without power, while more than 1,400 remain unaccounted for.
Auckland airport on Wednesday (15 February) confirmed that while domestic and international flights had resumed, airline schedules would likely remain disrupted "for several days".
Operations at the airport were suspended earlier this week owing to high winds.
The state of emergency covers six regions – Northland, Auckland, Tairawhiti, Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Hawkes Bay and Tararua District.
The New Zealand government described Gabrielle as an "unprecedented and dangerous weather event".
The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice to reflect the situation: "Ex-Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle is currently over New Zealand. Strong winds and flooding are impacting the North Island, and power is cut off to a number of communities.
"A state of emergency is in place in Auckland due to widespread flooding following unexpectedly heavy rain. Auckland airport has experienced disruption leading to flight delays and cancellations."
