NZ Historic Weather Events Catalogue

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May 1929 North Island Storm ( 1929-05-11 )

A storm brought heavy rain, flooding, gales and heavy seas to much of the North Island.

North Island

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at North Island
Duration:   6  days - From the 11th to the 16th of May.
Comments:

CommentWeather forecast for the 14th: A very intense cyclone is centered north of Cape Maria and is moving slowly southwards. Pressure is still high from Sydney to southern New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. Freshening east to north winds south of Greymouth and Kaikoura, elsewhere strong south-east to easterly winds to gales. Seas rough to heavy from Cook Strait northwards, considerable swell thence southwards on the East Coast, moderate on the west coast of the South Island. Strong south-easterly winds to gales and rough seas in the Eastern Tasman Sea. Weather unsettled and in places stormy from Nelson and Marlborough northwards, with rain. Many heavy falls with some floods in the northern rivers, later rain extending to other districts. Cold temperatures, with some frosts in the south.

CommentWeather forecast for the 16th: The cyclone is still centered north of the Bay of Plenty, and has shown little change in intensity. A slight depression is situated in the south-west Tasman Sea. Strong south-east to south winds north of Greymouth and Kaikoura, reaching gale force in places, elsewhere moderate to fresh east to south winds. Seas heavy about Cook Strait and north of Kaikoura, moderate on the west coast of the South Island, rough elsewhere. Strong southerly winds to gales with rough seas in the eastern Tasman Sea. Weather still generally unsettled with rain and many heavy falls, especially in the Hawke's Bay and the central provinces, with further flooding. Cold temperatures, and snow at places in the South Island.

CauseThe cyclone responsible for the bad weather was moving away to the south-east on the 16th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

AreaThe heavy rain appeared to have been universal over the areas embracing the Coast, Poverty Bay, and down to Napier.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere were blockages on the Gisborne-Wairoa-Napier road from the 14th. Through services on the road were resumed on the 19th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

Affected LifelineTelegraph and telephone services were interrupted. The lines from Northland to Auckland were badly affected on the 13th, mainly due to branches falling on the wires.

Northland

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Northland
Comments:

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 10th: "The indications are for southerly moderate winds to gale. The wether will probably prove squally and changeable with showery conditions, and it will probably become very cold. The barometer is rising. The seas will be rough and the tides moderate."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 11th: "The indications are for southerly moderate to strong winds and strong to gale at places. The weather will probably prove cold and changeable with scattered showers. The barometer is rising slowly and the seas will be rough and the tides moderate."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 14th: "The indications are for easterly winds, strong to gale. Thick, stormy weather, with heavy rain is to be expected, with rivers rising shortly. The temperatures will be cool. The barometer is falling slowly. Seas heavy and tides high."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 15th: "The indications are for southerly moderate to strong winds and strong to gale in places. The weather appears likely to be cloudy and unsettled with rain probable and cold temperatures. The barometer is rising slowly. The seas will be rough and the tides good."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 16th: "The indications are for southerly winds, varying from moderate to gale. The weather will probably prove cold and showery. The barometer is rising. The seas will be rough and tides good."

CommentNorthland was storm wracked after experiencing a violent gale and heavy rain.

Affected LifelineRoads were blocked on all sides of the Kirikopuni-Pukehuia-Dargaville branch line.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

DamageUnstable buildings were blown away and trees were uprooted.

Affected LifelineTelephone lines were interrupted and many poles were down.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentOn the east coast in the Whangarei district, flakes of froth as big as a man's hand were blown half a mile (800 m) inland from the sea, and beaches everywhere were littered.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentWater was rising near the railway lines in some places, but none had been submerged on the 14th.

Affected LifelineApproaches to bridges in the Whangarei district were affected. Various service cars were held up by flood waters.

Damage CostThe damage to roads in the Manaia Riding would probably total over £1000 ($84,900 2008 dollars).

FloodingFlooding at Dargaville
Map Location: -35.944137 173.869958
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Dargaville Donnelly's train was cancelled due to flood waters.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Helena Bay
Map Location: -35.433129 174.350161
Comments:

Affected LifelineHelena Bay was completely cut off by road after huge slips completely blocked the main road and the alternative Kaikanui route was blocked by fallen trees for two days.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Damage CostDamage done to the main Helena Bay road was estimated at £150 ($12,700 2008 dollars).

FloodingFlooding at Hikurangi
Map Location: -35.597981 174.28778
Comments:

ImpactThere was flooding in the vicinity of the two main mines in Hikurangi. The Hikurangi Coal Company's mine ceased pumping on the 11th. The flood in the mine rose to over 70 ft (21.3 m) deep. Work at the Wilsons' mine was stopped at 2:30am on the 14th due to an inrush of water.

Affected LifelineThe creek along King St was in heavy flood, and overflowed across the street to a considerable depth on the morning of the 14th.

ImpactTwo shops had their floors covered in several inches of water. One resident climbed out of bed into about 6 in (15 cm) of water at about 2am.

FloodingFlooding at Kaihu
Map Location: -35.770311 173.700017
Comments:

ImpactThe whole of the Kaihu Valley was under water on the 15th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Maungatapere
Map Location: -35.755491 174.195708
Comments:

Property DamageIn the Maungatapere area, several car sheds and a cow shed were blown down.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at McLeod Bay
Map Location: -35.813744 174.493859
Comments:

DamageA fishing boat was driven ashore by fierce seas at Slippery Point, at the southern end of McLeod Bay, on the morning of the 12th. One man was swept overboard at one point but managed to clamber back on the boat. All on board eventually made it to shore, but the boat was considerably damaged on the rocks.

CommentOne of the men on board the boat said the sea in the harbour was the fiercest he had seen in 30 years' sailing.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

Property DamageOn the night fo the 12th a "cyclonic squall" blew in the door of a house and then lifted its roof wide open, exposing the interior to the elements.

FloodingFlooding at Nukutawhiti
Map Location: -35.644217 173.850884
Comments:

Affected LifelineFlooding at Nukutawhiti made the road impassable.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Onerahi
Map Location: -35.765579 174.360107
Comments:

DamageThe small landing jetty at Onerahi was smashed to pieces. Two dinghies were smashed and a launch was damaged when she was driven under the wharf. Other dinghies sunk at their moorings and debris and gear from boats was strewn on the beach.

Affected LifelineAt high tide the waves broke over the sea wall and damaged the roadway.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

CommentThe wind blew from the south-east on the 11th, veered to east by north by that night and hardened into a gale. At times the winds were almost hurricane force.

CommentHouses were shaken by the force of the wind.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Otaika
Map Location: -35.786112 174.306319
Comments:

ImpactThe force of the wind blew the Harbour Board's heavy derrick a mile (1.2 km) from where it was heavily moored to near the Otaika settlement.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Paihia
Map Location: -35.284049 174.084489
Comments:

Property DamageAn 8 bedroom house on the beach at Paihia was blown down on the night of the 13th. The roof had begun to lift on the 12th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Parua Bay
Map Location: -35.768282 174.458587
Comments:

Property DamageThe roof of the shelter shed at the Parua Bay No. 1 School was torn off and blown into a dip on the other side of the road.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Pipiwai
Map Location: -35.61924 174.008928
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Government telephone line at Pipiwai was not working and four private lines were down.

LandslideLandslide at Pukehuia
Map Location: -35.869039 174.036652
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere were slips on the railway line at Mapuna (Road), causing the ballast train to cease running on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding at Purua
Map Location: -35.632197 174.102415
Comments:

Affected LifelineA culvert was washed away at Dinsdale's corner on the Purua Road.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Ruatangata West
Map Location: -35.66112 174.17358
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicRuatangata recorded 1.76 in (4.5 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 14th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Solomons Point
Map Location: -35.779258 174.447207
Comments:

Affected LifelineAt Solomons Point, the surface of the road had completely sunk to a depth of 2 or 3 ft (60 or 90 cm).

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Takahiwai
Map Location: -35.834751 174.410197
Comments:

ImpactTwo launches had to anchor at Takahiwai on the afternoon of the 11th and, with people on board, were buffeted through the mudflats, then washed up on a mangrove island that night. The launches were left high above the tide level.

FloodingFlooding at Tangiteroria
Map Location: -35.824775 174.046456
Comments:

CommentThere were big floods at Tangiteroria.

Affected LifelineThe wharf was submerged on the 14th, and the township was isolated.

FloodingFlooding at Tangowahine
Map Location: -35.867829 173.934219
Comments:

CommentThe Tangowahine flat was flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Titoki
Map Location: -35.734519 174.058818
Comments:

Affected LifelineFlooding at Titoki made the road impassable.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Tutukaka
Map Location: -35.608793 174.518108
Comments:

CommentResidents at Tutukaka said the storm was the worst experienced since the Wiltshire was wrecked (May-June 1922).

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

ImpactThe sea formed a new barrier at the foot of a home in Tutukaka.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Whananaki
Map Location: -35.506869 174.460753
Comments:

CommentResidents at Whananaki said the storm was the worst experienced since the Wiltshire was wrecked (May-June 1922).

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Whangarei
Map Location: -35.719519 174.298397
Comments:

CommentA change set in on the evening of the 11th, and on the 12th a very stormy day developed. Heavy rain was accompanied by a strong south-easterly, which later became a howling gale. The conditions continued during the night and on the 13th. The weather was improving on the 14th, though still very wild. The weather was still unsettled on the 16th.

CommentThe storm at the weekend was generally recognised as the worst experienced for many years.

Physical CharacteristicThe barometer read 20.83 at 1:30pm on the 13th, after falling 19 points since 9am, and 40 points since the 12th. On the 14th, the barometer reached a low reading of 29.52.

Physical CharacteristicThe temperature was 57 degrees (13.9 degC) at 1pm on the 13th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

CommentThere were exceptionally strong winds in Whangarei on the morning of the 13th. The wind dropped considerably on the 14th.

DamageGardens were damaged, a few trees were blown down and one lady's umbrella was ripped to shreds. At a nursery on Mill Road, several panes were blown in at glasshouses and plants were damaged by the wind.

Affected LifelineThe borough electricity supply was cut on the morning of the 13th, leaving homes and businesses without power. The power was back on that night, but failed again at 11:30pm, for half an hour.

Affected LifelineA by-road near the Maunu School was blocked when a pine tree fell across it from fence to fence.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain fell in Whangarei all day on the 13th and on the night of the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicWhangarei recorded 0.58 in (1.5 cm) of rain up to 9am on the 13th.

Physical CharacteristicWhangarei recorded 2.17 in (5.5 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicWhangarei recorded 1/2 in (1.3 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 16th.

Physical CharacteristicKamo received 2.78 in (7.1 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactLow-lying land was flooded and all creeks were running high. 12 acres (0.05 km^2) of land between Morningside Road and the railway were flooded.

Physical CharacteristicThe flats near Provan's factory and the Whangarei Electric Laundry were under 1 ft (30 cm) of water.

Affected LifelineThe water did considerable damage to the concrete bridge on Pohe's flat. Part of Bank Street had a considerable quantity of the drainage excavation spoil washed over the road surface, leaving it very muddy. The stone embankment on the northern side of the Victoria Bridge had a large hole washed out.

LightningLightning
Comments:

CommentThere was lightning on the night of the 13th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentThe spring tide on the 13th, backed up by the wind and flood waters, was the highest seen at the town wharf for many years.

CommentAt one point, the river stretched from in front of the Riverside Store on one bank to the Harbour Board buildings on the other side. Pohutukawa trees on the esplanade were covered and many jetties were lifted out of position.

Physical CharacteristicThe waves were 3 ft (90 cm) high at the town wharf.

ImpactA few launches broke their moorings and drifted. The sailing of the Claymore was delayed by one day.

ImpactThe Pohe Island Reclamation was completely covered up to several feet deep by three successive tides. The force of the tide had broken through the stopbank in three places. When the wind died down the water simply disappeared.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Whangarei Harbour
Map Location: -35.803727 174.405129
Comments:

CommentThe sea in the harbour was whipped into a frenzy on the 13th.

Physical CharacteristicSeas rising to 12 ft (3.7 m) high were experienced in the harbour on the morning of the 13th. One man said the seas were the highest he had ever seen in the harbour.

Affected LifelineRoads alongside the harbour had their embankments damaged and debris and timber deposited on them. There were numerous washouts.

Auckland

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Great Barrier Island
Map Location: -36.294052 175.53266
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Great Barrier was isolated due to downed telegraph lines in the Coromandel.

Waikato

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Waikato
Comments:

CommentA heavy gale raged on the Coromandel Pensinsula on the night of the 12th and on the 13th.

Affected LifelineTelegraph and telephone lines were down from Cape Colville to Port Charles.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentThe seas were large.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Coromandel
Map Location: -36.752541 175.509193
Comments:

DamageA scow carrying 100 tons of coal broke her moorings at Coromandel wharf and was driven ashore at Ruffins Bay.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Coromandel Harbour
Map Location: -36.802997 175.430261
Comments:

DamageThe launch Ngaru, with seven men on board, went missing on the 12th after setting off from Coromandel. The launch was washed ashore at Shakespeare's Bay, on the Whangaparaoa peninsula, at 2am on the 14th. The men were famished and exhausted after 36 hours in terrible seas. The launch was valued at £300 ($25,000 2008 dollars) and wireles equipment on board was worth £40 ($3,000 2008 dollars).

CommentThe seas were so large on the 13th that it was difficult to cross the harbour.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Kuaotunu
Map Location: -36.720865 175.723088
Comments:

DamageA large launch was wrecked at Kuaotunu on the morning of the 13th.

Gisborne

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Gisborne
Comments:

CommentThere was a heavy downpour on the night of the 13th and further heavy rain in parts on the 14th, following on intermittent rain during the few days earlier.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe rivers banked up to a high level, but during the day on the 14th the downpour lessened, as did the river levels.

CommentThroughout the district there was flooding in low-lying paddocks. Large areas of the Poverty Bay flats were flooded. On the 15th slight overflows of the Waipaoa River occurred in places on the flats.

DamageThere was widespread damage to the east coast. No bridges in the Cook County were damaged to any extent.

CommentThe Waipaoa and Waimate Rivers were at high flood levels.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

Affected LifelineMany roads throughout the area were blocked by slips and washouts. Traffic up the Coast was blocked past Tolaga Bay. Motor traffic was completely cut off between Gisborne and Moutohora owing to flooding at Otoko. Communication between all the Coast townships was severed on the 15th, except between Ruatoria and Waipiro Bay. Normal services up the Coast road as far as Ruatoria were resumed on the 19th. Beyond Ruatoria the swollen streams were still completely barring traffic.

Affected LifelineCars had to be railed between Gisborne and Motuhora due to swollen streams and minor slips.

DamageSome bridges were damaged. The Waimata and Hangaroa roads suffered badly.

Damage CostCook county main highways suffered £1390 ($117,900 2008 dollars) of damage and county roads £2000 ($169,700 2008 dollars) of damage - a total of £3390 ($287,600 2008 dollars).

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Haungaroa-Tiniroto road was blocked between Avondale and Grey's by several minor slips.

LandslideLandslide at Anaura homestead
Map Location: -38.27472 178.275375
Comments:

Affected LifelineProbably the worst slip on the road from Tolaga Bay was that at the Anaura turn-off, near Arero. Traffic was held up there on the 15th. The slip was partly cleared on the 16th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Awatere
Map Location: -37.681107 178.349865
Comments:

Physical Characteristic7.5 in (19.1 cm) of rain was recorded in the Awatere Valley on the 15th.

LandslideLandslide at Gentle Annie Hill
Map Location: -38.668525 177.813956
Comments:

Affected LifelineAlong the Gentle Annie road several slips came down. Harris' Hill, further on, was also blocked by slips.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Gisborne city
Map Location: -38.656661 178.017356
Comments:

Physical Characteristic3.05 in (7.7 cm) of rain fell in Gisborne in 24 hours.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

Affected LifelineA number of ditches and gutters in town failed, with subsequent flooding on footpaths and part of the roads.

DamageIn the harbour, "Goodman's Job" at the gap was seriously affected by the flood, with over 1000 ft (305 m) believed to have been damaged.

InjuriesA 6-year-old girl was swept down the muddy waters of the Mangapapa creek for 300 yards (270 m) before being rescued. She was unconscious but was resuscitated.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineOn Riverside Road, near the Rimuroa residence, the Waimata River was for a time completely blocked for half an hour by a huge slip, which carried some 5-6 chains (100-120 m) of the road into the river at about 4pm on the 15th. The settlers were completely cut off.

Damage CostThe damage to Riverside Road was estimated at £600 ($50,900 2008 dollars).

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

ImpactShipping was somewhat dislocated by the storm. Late on the night of the 16th two vessels were out at sea due to the heavy sea running in the harbour.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

ImpactNo mails were received from Hawke's Bay on the 14th or 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Kaiteratahi
Map Location: -38.527149 177.903096
Comments:

CommentThe river was rising rapidly at Kaiteratahi on the evening of the 14th and the rain was still falling heavily.

CommentThere was considerable flooding of flats on the town side of the railway bridge. One resident said that the water reached a level at the bridge higher than for many years previously.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Mangatu River
Map Location: -38.342876 177.781535
Comments:

CommentOn the morning of the 14th, rain was falling steadily over the whole of the Mangatu Valley, which drains into the Waipaoa.

FloodingFlooding at Mangatuna
Map Location: -38.30045 178.26526
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe silt from the Mangatuna river, some 5 or 6 miles (8.0-9.7 km) past Tolaga Bay, covered the road for some miles with silt to a depth of 3 or 4 ft (91-122 cm).

FloodingFlooding at Manutuke
Map Location: -38.680429 177.905684
Comments:

DamageSome damage was done in connection with the new bridge that was being built over the Arai stream at Opou.

LandslideLandslide at Matahorua Viaduct
Map Location: -39.168128 176.952838
Comments:

Affected LifelineA portion of the road in Matahoura gorge fell away on the afternoon of the 16th and a slip came down on to the road.

FloodingFlooding at Matawhero
Map Location: -38.657823 177.948982
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Matawhero the river was running a banker on the evening of the 14th, and had been rising at the rate of about 6 in (15.2 cm) an hour.

FloodingFlooding at Ngatapa
Map Location: -38.587511 177.788321
Comments:

Affected LifelineNgatapa was cut off from Gisborne on the 14th. The road was covered with some 3-4 ft (91-122 cm) of water in places.

CommentThe Mangateretere and Totangi creeks both overflowed and the paddocks on the old township flat were under water.

FloodingFlooding at Ormond
Map Location: -38.559145 177.924847
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe river overflowed at the Ormond Dip (about 1/2 mile on the town side of the Ormond township) from the afternoon of the 14th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Otoko
Map Location: -38.463891 177.646866
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain fell at Otoko and surrounding districts.

LandslideLandslide at Paparatu homestead
Map Location: -38.841414 177.679314
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a big slip 5 chains (100 m) long on the Paparatu road.

FloodingFlooding at Rere
Map Location: -38.537736 177.605211
Comments:

CommentInformation from Rere shortly before midnight on the 14th indicated that a very heavy volume of water was coming down the river, with the rain falling in sheets.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Te Karaka
Map Location: -38.467237 177.870255
Comments:

Physical Characteristic1.25 in (3.2 cm) of rain fell in Te Karaka in 24 hours.

Affected LifelineOwing to 5 ft (1.5 m) of water entering the Te Karaka tunnel, the train was held up.

FloodingFlooding at Tokomaru Bay
Map Location: -38.12831 178.319381
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe streams between Tokomaru Bay and Te Puia proved a barrier to traffic between those points.

CommentThe Maungahauini creek (River), outside Tokomaru Bay, was running high on the 16th.

ImpactA car became completely bogged at the Maungahauini Stream on the 17th and took 4-5 hours to remove.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineMuch damage was done to roads in the vicinity of Tokomaru Bay. At Busby's hill the road was in a very bad state with numerous cracks, and was slowly slipping away. Porau bridge, nearing Tokomaru bay, was showing signs of sinking. Just past Tokomaru Bay there was a big slip and traffic was diverted on the 16th.

FloodingFlooding at Tolaga Bay
Map Location: -38.370254 178.307107
Comments:

CommentConsiderable flooding occuured about Tolaga Bay.

Physical CharacteristicAbout noon on the 14th there was 8 ft (2.4 m) of water over the Mangatuna school bridge, with the river still rising and heavy rain falling.

Physical CharacteristicAt 5pm there was 18 in (45.7 cm) of water over Hall's Bridge.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe road was quite impassable. There were also a number of slips on the road.

FloodingFlooding at Waerengaahika
Map Location: -38.601149 177.92432
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Waerengaahika, the river was reported to be rising at the rate of 3-4 in (7.6-10.2 cm) an hour at 9:30pm on the 14th. At that time it was 2 ft (61 cm) from the top of the bank. Shortly before midnight the river had risen another 6 in (15.2 cm).

FloodingFlooding at Waimata Valley
Map Location: -38.503811 178.046705
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicOn the afternoon of the 14th the Waimata River was about 20 ft (6.1 m) above normal at the Waimata Valley

CommentSuch a mass of driftwood had not been seen in the Waimata for many years. Large portions of trees, huge logs and smaller debris came down in astounding quantities.

LandslideLandslide at Waingake
Map Location: -38.785686 177.794884
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere were several big sips on the Waingake-Manapoike road, ranging from 10-60 yards (9-55 m) in length.

FloodingFlooding at Wharekopae
Map Location: -38.539499 177.492777
Comments:

CommentAt noon on the 14th, the stream at Wharekopai had almost reached the level attained during the "snow flood" of 1906 or 1907.

Affected LifelineThe road near Mr P. J. Roberts; homestead was practically covered by water. When Mr Roberts attempted to move his sheep along the road, a number of them were washed off the road and one of his dogs was drowned. Later, the rush of water on the road swept right over his car.

FloodingFlooding at Whatatutu
Map Location: -38.383361 177.836991
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Whatatutu, the Waipaoa River was reported to be filling the whole width of its bed at 9am and rising steadily at the rate of 9 or 10 in (23-25 cm) an hour.

Hawke's Bay

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Hawke's Bay
Comments:

CommentThere was steady and, at times, very heavy rain for two days on the 13th and 14th. The rain ceased on the 16th, although lighter rain returned that night.

CommentThe rainfall was heavy in the back country.

CommentThree rivers broke their banks in 13 different places. The rivers fell rapidly on the 16th as the rain ceased. The Tukituki River and other streams throughout Central Hawke's Bay were in a highly swollen state. The flood waters had receded considerably around the district on the 18th, except at the Pakowhai road.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThere was extensive and widespread flooding throughout the province on the 14th. The low-lying country near the rivers from Waipukurau in the south to nearly Wairoa in the north was inundated. The Fernhill, Raupare, Whakatu and Clive districts were the worst affected.

Affected LifelineThe roads in some places were impassable on the 14th, as a result of the overflows from creeks and the collection of surface water. The Napier-Wairoa road was impassable. The Taupo route was passable with caution on the 17th.

Affected LifelineThe railway line was under deep water between Napier and Hastings. In places it was 2 ft (61 cm) underwater. One rail bridge had not been uncovered for two days. Railway communication was resumed on the morning of the 16th.

Stock DamageThe stock losses would run into several thousand sheep and many cattle drowned in the flood waters.

Affected LifelineBus and train services between Napier and Hastings were interrupted on the 15th.

ImpactFor miles between Napier and Hastings, the waters spread in a desolate waste.

CommentMost of the passengers marooned at Waikare returned to Wairoa on the 17th after a bridge over the big washout at the Wairoa end of Waikare had been completed.

Stock DamageA few horses and one cattle were known to have been washed away.

DamageThe amount of general damage reported was small, but isolated cases of loss of crops, etc., were coming to hand.

Physical CharacteristicThe floodwaters were within 2 ft (60 cm) of the height of the 1897 flood.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineA slip occurred between Tutira and Tangoio. A portion of the road was carried away by the slip from above. The slip was cleared sufficiently to allow cars through on the 19th.

FloodingFlooding at Awatoto
Map Location: -39.546866 176.911613
Comments:

CommentAt Awatoto, silt-laden waters extended from the Tutaekuri River across a 92 acre block, Maraenui Rd and beyond the dump bridge.

FloodingFlooding at Clive
Map Location: -39.586947 176.912721
Comments:

CommentThe Ngaruroro River was spilling over at Clive.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Eskdale
Map Location: -39.394568 176.82922
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicEskdale received 5.72 in (14.5 cm) of rain on the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicEskdale received 9.75 in (24.8 cm) of rain in 3 days.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Eskdale, the Esk River rose within 3 ft (90cm) of the 1924 flood level.

FloodingFlooding at Fernhill
Map Location: -39.590617 176.762035
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Ngaruroro River rose 12 ft (3.7 m) above normal at Fernhill on the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicThe Ngaruroro was 9 ft 6 in (2.9 m) above normal on the 15th.

CommentThe Ngaruroro River overflowed onto paddocks on the Moteo side.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Hastings
Map Location: -39.635771 176.828045
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicHastings recorded 4.5 in (11.4 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicHastings recorded 1.51 in (3.8 cm) of rain in 24 hours on the 15th.

CommentRain set in at Hastings on the 14th and continued heavily throughout the night, driven by a brisk south-east wind. Rain fell at times during the night of the 15th and it was showery on the morning of the 16th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentRivers were running bank to bank and overflowing in places.

ImpactThere was an immense area of low-lying land under water around Hastings.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Havelock North
Map Location: -39.673179 176.882039
Comments:

Affected LifelineElectric light failed at Havelock North on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Heretaunga
Map Location: -39.60976 176.851076
Comments:

ImpactThe Heretaunga plains were flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Karamu
Map Location: -39.630771 176.883147
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Karamu Stream overflowed onto the road at the bridge. There was 6 ft (1.2 m) of water over the Karamu bridge.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Kotemaori
Map Location: -39.062668 177.042276
Comments:

Physical Characteristic6.32 in (16.1 cm) of rain fell in Kotemaori on the 15th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Maraetotara Reserve
Map Location: -39.868507 176.890754
Comments:

Physical Characteristic9.78 in (24.8 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic9.73 in (24.7 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara in 24 hours on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic7.18 in (18.2 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara on the 15th.

Physical Characteristic9.26 in (23.5 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara in 24 hours on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicMaraetotara recorded 20.31 in (51.6 cm) of rain from the 13th till the 16th.

CommentAt Maraetotara the rainfall was a record for the past ten years.

FloodingFlooding at Meeanee
Map Location: -39.542704 176.888089
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Papakura area was isolated. There was a blockage at Meeanee bridge on the afternoon of the 14th, where the Tutaekuri River had risen very high, causing the water to wash the decking and flow down the approaches to the hotel, store and a few other buildings situated there. The river also made breaches in three other places.

Physical CharacteristicOn the night of the 14th the Tutaekuri River had risen 12.5 ft (3.8 m) above normal at Meeanee. On the afternoon of the 15th it was 12 ft 9 in (3.9 m) above normal.

CommentThe river made a new course extending a few hundred yards.

CommentThe whole area extending from Meeanee to Clive was a sea of water.

CasualtiesA man (28 years old) was drowned after he fell into a breach in the riverbank at Meeanee whilst inspecting flood damage. The water was about 10 ft (3 m) deep where he fell and he could not swim.

DamageThe road from Meeanee bridge towards Awatoto was scoured and large quantities of silt were deposited in places.

EvacueesOne house was evacuated.

LandslideLandslide at Mohaka
Map Location: -39.114358 177.197486
Comments:

Affected LifelineMinor slips in the cutting near Mohaka rabbit bridge blocked that section of road for a time.

LandslideLandslide at Morere Hill
Map Location: -38.959122 177.788829
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a slip on the Gisborne-Wairoa road at Morere Hill, below Joblin's.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Napier
Map Location: -39.502426 176.892804
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 2.5 in (6.4 cm) of rain in 24 hours on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 1.5 in (3.8 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 16th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentConsiderable rain during the past 24 hours (13th-14th) had swollen the rivers.

Affected LifelineThe main road south became blocked during the night of the 14th, stopping traffic between Napier and Hastings from 9:30pm. Other roads were blocked the next morning. The main road south was open to traffic on the 17th, but some country by-roads were still covered up to 3 ft (90 cm) in places.

CommentWater was reported to be up to the decking of the Redcliff bridge, where the Tutaekuri River overflowed.

Physical CharacteristicThe Tutaekuri River at Redcliff Bridge was 9 ft 4 in (2.8 m) on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicAt the Redcliffe bridge the water rose to 11 ft (3.4 m).

CommentThe Ngaruroro River rose very rapidly overnight on the 14th and overflowed its banks on the 15th, flooding adjacent country.

ImpactNapier itself escaped flooding, but the farming districts surrounding it were hard hit.

CommentWater extended from the ridge of land on the sea front to 5 or 6 miles (8.0-9.7 km) back.

Stock DamageNo great loss of stock occurred owing to the ample warning given.

ImpactThe mails for Napier were delayed owing to the express from Wellington being unable to get through.

CasualtiesA boy (8 years old) was drowned in the Tutaekuri River in Napier on the afternoon of the 22nd. He was playing in a launch when it overbalanced and he was swept downstream. The river at the time was swollen and dirty from the recent floods.

CommentThe inner harbour lagoon, extending across to Parke Is was greatly swollen by flood waters.

CommentThe Tutaekuri River changed its course.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentHigh seas made it difficult for streams to get away.

FloodingFlooding at Ngaruroro River
Map Location: -39.580827 176.799364
Comments:

CommentOn the night of the 15th the lands surrounding the Ngaruroro River were all under water. The waters had reached a higher level than in the last flood.

FloodingFlooding at Pakowhai
Map Location: -39.584175 176.861298
Comments:

Stock DamageThe Pakowhai district suffered heavy stock losses. One owner lost 150 lambs, another two lost 400 each, and another 300.

Affected LifelineThe Pakowhai area was isolated for a few days. The Pakowhai road was still blocked by flood waters on the 18th, although only by a short stretch.

ImpactWater surrounded a homestead at Pakowhai, with 30-40 acres (0.12-0.16 km2) of land covered by surface water.

FloodingFlooding at Porangahau
Map Location: -40.297164 176.611003
Comments:

DamagePorangahau was reported to have heavy flooding and serious stock losses.

FloodingFlooding at Puketapu
Map Location: -39.508443 176.793634
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Tutaekuri River rose 11 ft (3.3 m) at Puketapu.

Affected LifelineOmaranui Rd was submerged at the dip, blocking all traffic.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Puketitiri
Map Location: -39.283957 176.524962
Comments:

Physical Characteristic5.83 in (14.8 cm) of rain fell in Pukatitiri on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic5.38 in (13.7 cm) of rain fell in Pukatitiri on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Rissington
Map Location: -39.427512 176.704332
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe inland road at Rissington was blocked when a low level bridge became submerged.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

Physical Characteristic6.10 in (15.5 cm) of rain fell in Rissington on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding at Takapau
Map Location: -40.028683 176.33826
Comments:

DamageTakapau was reported to have heavy flooding and serious stock losses.

FloodingFlooding at Tangoio
Map Location: -39.327667 176.914911
Comments:

Affected LifelineTraffic between Gisborne and Napier was held up at Tangoio ford, where the stream had become a raging torrent. On the 14th, 30 passengers in 13 service cars plus two trucks were held up there all night by the impassable stream ahead and a slip behind them. They were rescued the next morning. The road was still impassable on the 16th.

LandslideLandslide at Tarewa station
Map Location: -38.937547 177.808722
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a slip on the Gisborne-Wairoa road a short distance above Tarewa Station.

FloodingFlooding at Te Mata Park
Map Location: -39.698253 176.900375
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Tukituki River rose 12 ft (3.7 m) at Te Mata on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding at Tikokino
Map Location: -39.821871 176.459084
Comments:

DamageTikokino was reported to have heavy flooding and serious stock losses.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Tutira
Map Location: -39.207531 176.881485
Comments:

Physical Characteristic5.93 in (15.1 cm) of rain fell in Tutira on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic5.60 in (14.2 cm) of rain fell in Tutira on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Twyford
Map Location: -39.601017 176.802225
Comments:

ImpactHundreds of acres on either side of Raupere Rd were underwater and two houses were isolated.

Physical CharacteristicOne house was flooded with 2ft 6 in (76 cm) of water.

FloodingFlooding at Waikari River
Map Location: -39.125171 176.995545
Comments:

Affected Lifeline50 service car passengers were marooned at Waikari, 40 miles from Napier.

FloodingFlooding at Waipawa
Map Location: -39.940581 176.600338
Comments:

Affected LifelineIn the Waipara area, all the major roads and bridges were closed to all traffic on the 16th. One concrete bridge subsided.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Waipukurau
Map Location: -39.999445 176.562423
Comments:

CommentWaipukarau had 36 hours of steady rain.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe Tukituki River was higher than had been for many years, and it overflowed in many places. It was still rising on the 16th.

ImpactLow-lying areas were inundated and part of the Waipukurau racecourse was flooded.

EvacueesSeveral people were evacuated as water entered houses.

Affected LifelineThe Waipukurau borough septic tank was inundated.

CommentNot since 1916 had the flood conditions in the district been so severe. Residents of 30 years said they had never experienced such a flood.

FloodingFlooding at Waitangi Mission Station
Map Location: -39.565876 176.922592
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThere was 4 ft (1.2 m) of water over the road at Waitangi.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Whanawhana
Map Location: -39.542825 176.431084
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicWhanawhana recorded 5.73 in (14.6 cm) of rain in 17 hours from 4pm on the 14th to 9am on the 15th.

Physical Characteristic1.5 in (3.8 cm) of rain fell in Whanawhana in 24 hours on the 15th.

Taranaki

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at New Plymouth
Map Location: -39.051214 174.06972
Comments:

CommentA severe gale devastated the New Plymouth district from the 14th till the 16th.

Property DamageMany windows, fences and chimneys were damaged. A house in town was partly unroofed at 12:30am on the 16th, forcing the family to vacate the it.

Affected LifelineThe debris from the house carried away electric wires in the street, dislocating the tram service on the morning of the 16th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

DamageOn the morning of the 16th a launch was smahsed against the wharf and another sunk at its moorings.

Manawatu-Wanganui

FloodingFlooding at Manawatu-Wanganui
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThere was a rapid rise in the Manawatu River on the 15th following the heavy rain in Hawke's Bay. The River Board's gauge showed a rise from 5 ft (1.5 m) on the 15th to nearly 14 ft (4.3 m) at 2am on the 16th.

DamageThe Pohangina River was in heavy flood and caused considerable damage.

CommentThe Oroua River was in high flood due to rain in the back country and the backing up of the Manawatu River, and it broke its banks early on the morning of the 16th.

FloodingFlooding at Foxton
Map Location: -40.467435 175.29048
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Foxton-Shannon and Foxton-Palmerston North roads were blocked by flood waters on the 14th.

Affected LifelineThe train was unable to leave Foxton on the morning of the 16th due to a washout near Rangitane.

FloodingFlooding at Komako
Map Location: -40.093863 175.894382
Comments:

Affected LifelineA washout occurred on the Komaka bridge approaches over the Pohangina River.

ImpactLow-lying lands were flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Moutoa
Map Location: -40.507761 175.389825
Comments:

ImpactThe Manawatu River was spilling into Moutoa on the 16th.

FloodingFlooding at Norsewood
Map Location: -40.070333 176.220649
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a washout on the Napier-Palmerston North road at Norsewood on the 15th.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Palmerston North
Map Location: -40.355525 175.616438
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain in Palmerston North was accompanied by heavy winds.

Affected LifelineTwo lines were down at 8pm on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Manawatu River was 13.7 ft (4.18 m) above normal at 10pm on the 15th.

Peak River FlowThe Manawatu River had a peak discharge of 5700 cumecs at the Fitzherbert Bridge.

Peak River LevelThe Manawatu River rose to 13 ft 9 in (4.19 m) at the Fitzherbert Bridge gauge.

FloodingFlooding at Rangiotu
Map Location: -40.421134 175.439206
Comments:

EvacueesResidents of Rangiotu were forced to evacuate their homes due to the danger of a further rise in the Oroua River.

Affected LifelineThe railway line to Foxton was under water and services were suspended.

Peak Water LevelWater on the railway line was up to 18 in (46 cm) deep and the tops of fences were not visible.

FloodingFlooding at Tiakitahuna
Map Location: -40.404015 175.502229
Comments:

CommentThe Manawatu River overflowed its banks in the vicinity of Tiakatahuna.

Affected LifelineThe main road to Foxton was covered to a depth of 4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m) in places.

Crop DamageAn area of land of approximately 10,000 acres (40.5 km^2) was covered with water, and pasture was damaged.

CasualtiesThe body of a man (30-35 years old) was found on the riverbank at Tiakitahuna on the 20th. It was belived that he had been drowned and the body carried there by the flood.

Wellington

FloodingFlooding at Wellington
Comments:

CommentHeavy rainfall caused a rapid rise in the rivers throughout the Wairarapa district.

ImpactSettlers at Kokotau, Dalefield and Matarawa were surrounded by flood waters. The waters were receding rapidly on the 16th as the weather cleared.

ImpactDairy farmers experienced difficulty in getting milk to the factories.

Affected LifelineCreeks in the upper plain district overflowed, causing inconvenience to settlers and road traffic.

Stock DamageHeavy stock losses were reported.

FloodingFlooding at Ahikouka
Map Location: -41.069792 175.480846
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Waiohine River overflowed on to the main highway, causing difficulty for traffic.

LandslideLandslide at Blairlogie
Map Location: -40.959538 175.974057
Comments:

DamageAt Blairlogie, slight damage was done on the deviation by slips.

FloodingFlooding at Hinakura
Map Location: -41.291804 175.645033
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe worst damage reported was at Hinakura, where one of the four Dawson bridges over the Pahaoa River, Bush Gully bridge, which was 300 ft long, collapsed. Traffic to Bush Gully and beyond was completely cut off.

CommentThe flood in the Pahaoa River was the highest experienced for 20 years.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

CommentMany washouts and slips occurred in that district.

FloodingFlooding at Kahutara
Map Location: -41.22848 175.343626
Comments:

CommentIt was reported that 3 chains (60 m) of an uncompleted stopbank at Kahutara burst at 3pm on the 16th. Much low-lying country was flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Lake Wairarapa
Map Location: -41.207855 175.248076
Comments:

CommentThe South Wairarapa districts around Wairarapa Lake in the vicinity of Ruamahanga River were flooded on the 16th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Langdale
Map Location: -40.931903 176.049445
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicLangdale received 5.25 in (13.3 cm) of rain.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Masterton
Map Location: -40.964296 175.667649
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain fell at Masterton on the 14th and 15th.

Physical CharacteristicMasterton received over 3 in (7.6 cm) of rain in 24 hours.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactRivers were flooded and low-lying land was inundated.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Stronvar
Map Location: -41.059942 175.940462
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicStronvar received 6.56 in (16.7 cm) of rain.

FloodingFlooding at Tinui
Map Location: -40.877878 176.065376
Comments:

CommentIt appeared that the heaviest rise in the rivers took place around Tinui.

ImpactThe river at the back of the Castlepoint County Office was in high flood on the morning of the 15th and by noon a large area was under water. The office was inundated by flood waters and the clerk's dwelling house was also flooded. Other houses in the vicinity were also invaded by the rising waters.

EvacueesSome houses had to be evacuated.

Physical CharacteristicThe county office was flooded to a depth of 6 in (15 cm).

CommentAt Tinui, the sudden rise of the river came as a surprise to settlers before sheep could be removed.

Physical CharacteristicThe main street in Tinui was flooded up to 3 ft (90 cm) by the Whareama River.

CommentThey were the worst floods experienced at Tinui for more than 20 years.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicTinui received 4.03 in (10.2 cm) of rain in 24 hours.

References

Cowie, C.A. and Attwood, A.K. (1957). Floods in New Zealand 1920-1953. The Soil Conservation Control Council, Wellington, New Zealand.
Headline: Moutoa threatened.
The Evening Post, May 15 1929.
Headline: Underwater: Large areas flooded.
The Evening Post, May 15 1929.
Headline: The worst over.
The Evening Post, May 15 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy Gale: Launch and seven men missing.
The Gisborne Times, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Flood dangers.
The Gisborne Times, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Threat of damage in Hawke's Bay: Napier-Wairoa Road affected.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Worst storm for years at Whangarei: Low-lying land flooded.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Alarm at Manawatu.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy rain in Wairarapa: Back country flooded.
The Gisborne Times, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Heretaunga Plains threatened with flood: Tutaekuri over the banks.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Position in Hawke's Bay: Three rivers break banks.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Storm and floods.
The Gisborne Times, 16 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Gale and flood.
The Gisborne Times, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Gale in New Plymouth: House partly unroofed.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Hawke's Bay rivers falling.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Manawatu rises rapidly: Ten thousand acres covered with water.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Position in South Wairarapa.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Relief predicted: Cyclone moving away.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Wairarapa rivers in high flood: Collapse of bridge.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Main south road.
The Gisborne Times, 18 May 1929.
Headline: Position improving in Hawke's Bay: No serious stock losses anticipated.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 18 May 1929.
Headline: After the storm.
The Gisborne Times, 20 May 1929.
Headline: Waters receding.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 20 May 1929.
Headline: Accidents and deaths: Man's body found in river.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 21 May 1929.
Headline: Accidents and deaths: Farm labourer drowned.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 21 May 1929.
Headline: Eight-year-old boy drowned: Sad fatality in Tutaekuri River.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 23 May 1929.
Headline: Flood damage.
The Gisborne Times, 23 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy rainfall: Rivers in high flood.
The Hawke's Bay Tribune, 15 May 1929.
Headline: In the Wairarapa.
The Hawke's Bay Tribune, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Rivers going down.
The Hawke's Bay Tribune, 16 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 10 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 11 May 1929.
Headline: A wild weekend: Weather in Whangarei.
The Northern Advocate, 13 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy sea at Thames: Big launch missing.
The Northern Advocate, 13 May 1929.
Headline: Local and general.
The Northern Advocate, 13 May 1929.
Headline: Missing launch: Wrecked at Whangaparaoa.
The Northern Advocate, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Raging storm: Whangarei district damage.
The Northern Advocate, 14 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Blown down by a gale: Fine residence at Paihia.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Flooded mines.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Floods threatened: Fears in Hawke's Bay.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy downpour.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: In the Wairarapa: Swollen rivers.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Express train gets through: Caution still necessary.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Nature steps in: River takes new course.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Onerahi news.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Rain and floods.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Swept by gale: District devastated.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Thrills on sea and land.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Unsettled weather: No signs of break.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Floods and alarms: Water in King Street.
The Northern Advocate, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Local and general.
The Northern Advocate, 17 May 1929.
Saunders, W. (2000). Planning and Resources, Hazard and Emergency Management Section, Wairarapa Division, Wairarapa Storm Events 1880 - 1998, Technical Report No. 00/17.

May 1929 North Island Storm ( 1929-05-11 )

A storm brought heavy rain, flooding, gales and heavy seas to much of the North Island.

North Island

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at North Island
Duration:   6  days - From the 11th to the 16th of May.
Comments:

CommentWeather forecast for the 14th: A very intense cyclone is centered north of Cape Maria and is moving slowly southwards. Pressure is still high from Sydney to southern New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. Freshening east to north winds south of Greymouth and Kaikoura, elsewhere strong south-east to easterly winds to gales. Seas rough to heavy from Cook Strait northwards, considerable swell thence southwards on the East Coast, moderate on the west coast of the South Island. Strong south-easterly winds to gales and rough seas in the Eastern Tasman Sea. Weather unsettled and in places stormy from Nelson and Marlborough northwards, with rain. Many heavy falls with some floods in the northern rivers, later rain extending to other districts. Cold temperatures, with some frosts in the south.

CommentWeather forecast for the 16th: The cyclone is still centered north of the Bay of Plenty, and has shown little change in intensity. A slight depression is situated in the south-west Tasman Sea. Strong south-east to south winds north of Greymouth and Kaikoura, reaching gale force in places, elsewhere moderate to fresh east to south winds. Seas heavy about Cook Strait and north of Kaikoura, moderate on the west coast of the South Island, rough elsewhere. Strong southerly winds to gales with rough seas in the eastern Tasman Sea. Weather still generally unsettled with rain and many heavy falls, especially in the Hawke's Bay and the central provinces, with further flooding. Cold temperatures, and snow at places in the South Island.

CauseThe cyclone responsible for the bad weather was moving away to the south-east on the 16th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

AreaThe heavy rain appeared to have been universal over the areas embracing the Coast, Poverty Bay, and down to Napier.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere were blockages on the Gisborne-Wairoa-Napier road from the 14th. Through services on the road were resumed on the 19th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

Affected LifelineTelegraph and telephone services were interrupted. The lines from Northland to Auckland were badly affected on the 13th, mainly due to branches falling on the wires.

Northland

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Northland
Comments:

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 10th: "The indications are for southerly moderate winds to gale. The wether will probably prove squally and changeable with showery conditions, and it will probably become very cold. The barometer is rising. The seas will be rough and the tides moderate."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 11th: "The indications are for southerly moderate to strong winds and strong to gale at places. The weather will probably prove cold and changeable with scattered showers. The barometer is rising slowly and the seas will be rough and the tides moderate."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 14th: "The indications are for easterly winds, strong to gale. Thick, stormy weather, with heavy rain is to be expected, with rivers rising shortly. The temperatures will be cool. The barometer is falling slowly. Seas heavy and tides high."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 15th: "The indications are for southerly moderate to strong winds and strong to gale in places. The weather appears likely to be cloudy and unsettled with rain probable and cold temperatures. The barometer is rising slowly. The seas will be rough and the tides good."

CommentWeather Bureau forecast for 24 hours from 9am on the 16th: "The indications are for southerly winds, varying from moderate to gale. The weather will probably prove cold and showery. The barometer is rising. The seas will be rough and tides good."

CommentNorthland was storm wracked after experiencing a violent gale and heavy rain.

Affected LifelineRoads were blocked on all sides of the Kirikopuni-Pukehuia-Dargaville branch line.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

DamageUnstable buildings were blown away and trees were uprooted.

Affected LifelineTelephone lines were interrupted and many poles were down.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentOn the east coast in the Whangarei district, flakes of froth as big as a man's hand were blown half a mile (800 m) inland from the sea, and beaches everywhere were littered.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentWater was rising near the railway lines in some places, but none had been submerged on the 14th.

Affected LifelineApproaches to bridges in the Whangarei district were affected. Various service cars were held up by flood waters.

Damage CostThe damage to roads in the Manaia Riding would probably total over £1000 ($84,900 2008 dollars).

FloodingFlooding at Dargaville
Map Location: -35.944137 173.869958
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Dargaville Donnelly's train was cancelled due to flood waters.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Helena Bay
Map Location: -35.433129 174.350161
Comments:

Affected LifelineHelena Bay was completely cut off by road after huge slips completely blocked the main road and the alternative Kaikanui route was blocked by fallen trees for two days.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Damage CostDamage done to the main Helena Bay road was estimated at £150 ($12,700 2008 dollars).

FloodingFlooding at Hikurangi
Map Location: -35.597981 174.28778
Comments:

ImpactThere was flooding in the vicinity of the two main mines in Hikurangi. The Hikurangi Coal Company's mine ceased pumping on the 11th. The flood in the mine rose to over 70 ft (21.3 m) deep. Work at the Wilsons' mine was stopped at 2:30am on the 14th due to an inrush of water.

Affected LifelineThe creek along King St was in heavy flood, and overflowed across the street to a considerable depth on the morning of the 14th.

ImpactTwo shops had their floors covered in several inches of water. One resident climbed out of bed into about 6 in (15 cm) of water at about 2am.

FloodingFlooding at Kaihu
Map Location: -35.770311 173.700017
Comments:

ImpactThe whole of the Kaihu Valley was under water on the 15th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Maungatapere
Map Location: -35.755491 174.195708
Comments:

Property DamageIn the Maungatapere area, several car sheds and a cow shed were blown down.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at McLeod Bay
Map Location: -35.813744 174.493859
Comments:

DamageA fishing boat was driven ashore by fierce seas at Slippery Point, at the southern end of McLeod Bay, on the morning of the 12th. One man was swept overboard at one point but managed to clamber back on the boat. All on board eventually made it to shore, but the boat was considerably damaged on the rocks.

CommentOne of the men on board the boat said the sea in the harbour was the fiercest he had seen in 30 years' sailing.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

Property DamageOn the night fo the 12th a "cyclonic squall" blew in the door of a house and then lifted its roof wide open, exposing the interior to the elements.

FloodingFlooding at Nukutawhiti
Map Location: -35.644217 173.850884
Comments:

Affected LifelineFlooding at Nukutawhiti made the road impassable.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Onerahi
Map Location: -35.765579 174.360107
Comments:

DamageThe small landing jetty at Onerahi was smashed to pieces. Two dinghies were smashed and a launch was damaged when she was driven under the wharf. Other dinghies sunk at their moorings and debris and gear from boats was strewn on the beach.

Affected LifelineAt high tide the waves broke over the sea wall and damaged the roadway.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

CommentThe wind blew from the south-east on the 11th, veered to east by north by that night and hardened into a gale. At times the winds were almost hurricane force.

CommentHouses were shaken by the force of the wind.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Otaika
Map Location: -35.786112 174.306319
Comments:

ImpactThe force of the wind blew the Harbour Board's heavy derrick a mile (1.2 km) from where it was heavily moored to near the Otaika settlement.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Paihia
Map Location: -35.284049 174.084489
Comments:

Property DamageAn 8 bedroom house on the beach at Paihia was blown down on the night of the 13th. The roof had begun to lift on the 12th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Parua Bay
Map Location: -35.768282 174.458587
Comments:

Property DamageThe roof of the shelter shed at the Parua Bay No. 1 School was torn off and blown into a dip on the other side of the road.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Pipiwai
Map Location: -35.61924 174.008928
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Government telephone line at Pipiwai was not working and four private lines were down.

LandslideLandslide at Pukehuia
Map Location: -35.869039 174.036652
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere were slips on the railway line at Mapuna (Road), causing the ballast train to cease running on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding at Purua
Map Location: -35.632197 174.102415
Comments:

Affected LifelineA culvert was washed away at Dinsdale's corner on the Purua Road.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Ruatangata West
Map Location: -35.66112 174.17358
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicRuatangata recorded 1.76 in (4.5 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 14th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Solomons Point
Map Location: -35.779258 174.447207
Comments:

Affected LifelineAt Solomons Point, the surface of the road had completely sunk to a depth of 2 or 3 ft (60 or 90 cm).

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Takahiwai
Map Location: -35.834751 174.410197
Comments:

ImpactTwo launches had to anchor at Takahiwai on the afternoon of the 11th and, with people on board, were buffeted through the mudflats, then washed up on a mangrove island that night. The launches were left high above the tide level.

FloodingFlooding at Tangiteroria
Map Location: -35.824775 174.046456
Comments:

CommentThere were big floods at Tangiteroria.

Affected LifelineThe wharf was submerged on the 14th, and the township was isolated.

FloodingFlooding at Tangowahine
Map Location: -35.867829 173.934219
Comments:

CommentThe Tangowahine flat was flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Titoki
Map Location: -35.734519 174.058818
Comments:

Affected LifelineFlooding at Titoki made the road impassable.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Tutukaka
Map Location: -35.608793 174.518108
Comments:

CommentResidents at Tutukaka said the storm was the worst experienced since the Wiltshire was wrecked (May-June 1922).

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

ImpactThe sea formed a new barrier at the foot of a home in Tutukaka.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Whananaki
Map Location: -35.506869 174.460753
Comments:

CommentResidents at Whananaki said the storm was the worst experienced since the Wiltshire was wrecked (May-June 1922).

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Whangarei
Map Location: -35.719519 174.298397
Comments:

CommentA change set in on the evening of the 11th, and on the 12th a very stormy day developed. Heavy rain was accompanied by a strong south-easterly, which later became a howling gale. The conditions continued during the night and on the 13th. The weather was improving on the 14th, though still very wild. The weather was still unsettled on the 16th.

CommentThe storm at the weekend was generally recognised as the worst experienced for many years.

Physical CharacteristicThe barometer read 20.83 at 1:30pm on the 13th, after falling 19 points since 9am, and 40 points since the 12th. On the 14th, the barometer reached a low reading of 29.52.

Physical CharacteristicThe temperature was 57 degrees (13.9 degC) at 1pm on the 13th.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

CommentThere were exceptionally strong winds in Whangarei on the morning of the 13th. The wind dropped considerably on the 14th.

DamageGardens were damaged, a few trees were blown down and one lady's umbrella was ripped to shreds. At a nursery on Mill Road, several panes were blown in at glasshouses and plants were damaged by the wind.

Affected LifelineThe borough electricity supply was cut on the morning of the 13th, leaving homes and businesses without power. The power was back on that night, but failed again at 11:30pm, for half an hour.

Affected LifelineA by-road near the Maunu School was blocked when a pine tree fell across it from fence to fence.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain fell in Whangarei all day on the 13th and on the night of the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicWhangarei recorded 0.58 in (1.5 cm) of rain up to 9am on the 13th.

Physical CharacteristicWhangarei recorded 2.17 in (5.5 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicWhangarei recorded 1/2 in (1.3 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 16th.

Physical CharacteristicKamo received 2.78 in (7.1 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactLow-lying land was flooded and all creeks were running high. 12 acres (0.05 km^2) of land between Morningside Road and the railway were flooded.

Physical CharacteristicThe flats near Provan's factory and the Whangarei Electric Laundry were under 1 ft (30 cm) of water.

Affected LifelineThe water did considerable damage to the concrete bridge on Pohe's flat. Part of Bank Street had a considerable quantity of the drainage excavation spoil washed over the road surface, leaving it very muddy. The stone embankment on the northern side of the Victoria Bridge had a large hole washed out.

LightningLightning
Comments:

CommentThere was lightning on the night of the 13th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentThe spring tide on the 13th, backed up by the wind and flood waters, was the highest seen at the town wharf for many years.

CommentAt one point, the river stretched from in front of the Riverside Store on one bank to the Harbour Board buildings on the other side. Pohutukawa trees on the esplanade were covered and many jetties were lifted out of position.

Physical CharacteristicThe waves were 3 ft (90 cm) high at the town wharf.

ImpactA few launches broke their moorings and drifted. The sailing of the Claymore was delayed by one day.

ImpactThe Pohe Island Reclamation was completely covered up to several feet deep by three successive tides. The force of the tide had broken through the stopbank in three places. When the wind died down the water simply disappeared.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Whangarei Harbour
Map Location: -35.803727 174.405129
Comments:

CommentThe sea in the harbour was whipped into a frenzy on the 13th.

Physical CharacteristicSeas rising to 12 ft (3.7 m) high were experienced in the harbour on the morning of the 13th. One man said the seas were the highest he had ever seen in the harbour.

Affected LifelineRoads alongside the harbour had their embankments damaged and debris and timber deposited on them. There were numerous washouts.

Auckland

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Great Barrier Island
Map Location: -36.294052 175.53266
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Great Barrier was isolated due to downed telegraph lines in the Coromandel.

Waikato

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Waikato
Comments:

CommentA heavy gale raged on the Coromandel Pensinsula on the night of the 12th and on the 13th.

Affected LifelineTelegraph and telephone lines were down from Cape Colville to Port Charles.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentThe seas were large.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Coromandel
Map Location: -36.752541 175.509193
Comments:

DamageA scow carrying 100 tons of coal broke her moorings at Coromandel wharf and was driven ashore at Ruffins Bay.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Coromandel Harbour
Map Location: -36.802997 175.430261
Comments:

DamageThe launch Ngaru, with seven men on board, went missing on the 12th after setting off from Coromandel. The launch was washed ashore at Shakespeare's Bay, on the Whangaparaoa peninsula, at 2am on the 14th. The men were famished and exhausted after 36 hours in terrible seas. The launch was valued at £300 ($25,000 2008 dollars) and wireles equipment on board was worth £40 ($3,000 2008 dollars).

CommentThe seas were so large on the 13th that it was difficult to cross the harbour.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Kuaotunu
Map Location: -36.720865 175.723088
Comments:

DamageA large launch was wrecked at Kuaotunu on the morning of the 13th.

Gisborne

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Gisborne
Comments:

CommentThere was a heavy downpour on the night of the 13th and further heavy rain in parts on the 14th, following on intermittent rain during the few days earlier.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe rivers banked up to a high level, but during the day on the 14th the downpour lessened, as did the river levels.

CommentThroughout the district there was flooding in low-lying paddocks. Large areas of the Poverty Bay flats were flooded. On the 15th slight overflows of the Waipaoa River occurred in places on the flats.

DamageThere was widespread damage to the east coast. No bridges in the Cook County were damaged to any extent.

CommentThe Waipaoa and Waimate Rivers were at high flood levels.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

Affected LifelineMany roads throughout the area were blocked by slips and washouts. Traffic up the Coast was blocked past Tolaga Bay. Motor traffic was completely cut off between Gisborne and Moutohora owing to flooding at Otoko. Communication between all the Coast townships was severed on the 15th, except between Ruatoria and Waipiro Bay. Normal services up the Coast road as far as Ruatoria were resumed on the 19th. Beyond Ruatoria the swollen streams were still completely barring traffic.

Affected LifelineCars had to be railed between Gisborne and Motuhora due to swollen streams and minor slips.

DamageSome bridges were damaged. The Waimata and Hangaroa roads suffered badly.

Damage CostCook county main highways suffered £1390 ($117,900 2008 dollars) of damage and county roads £2000 ($169,700 2008 dollars) of damage - a total of £3390 ($287,600 2008 dollars).

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Haungaroa-Tiniroto road was blocked between Avondale and Grey's by several minor slips.

LandslideLandslide at Anaura homestead
Map Location: -38.27472 178.275375
Comments:

Affected LifelineProbably the worst slip on the road from Tolaga Bay was that at the Anaura turn-off, near Arero. Traffic was held up there on the 15th. The slip was partly cleared on the 16th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Awatere
Map Location: -37.681107 178.349865
Comments:

Physical Characteristic7.5 in (19.1 cm) of rain was recorded in the Awatere Valley on the 15th.

LandslideLandslide at Gentle Annie Hill
Map Location: -38.668525 177.813956
Comments:

Affected LifelineAlong the Gentle Annie road several slips came down. Harris' Hill, further on, was also blocked by slips.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Gisborne city
Map Location: -38.656661 178.017356
Comments:

Physical Characteristic3.05 in (7.7 cm) of rain fell in Gisborne in 24 hours.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

Affected LifelineA number of ditches and gutters in town failed, with subsequent flooding on footpaths and part of the roads.

DamageIn the harbour, "Goodman's Job" at the gap was seriously affected by the flood, with over 1000 ft (305 m) believed to have been damaged.

InjuriesA 6-year-old girl was swept down the muddy waters of the Mangapapa creek for 300 yards (270 m) before being rescued. She was unconscious but was resuscitated.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineOn Riverside Road, near the Rimuroa residence, the Waimata River was for a time completely blocked for half an hour by a huge slip, which carried some 5-6 chains (100-120 m) of the road into the river at about 4pm on the 15th. The settlers were completely cut off.

Damage CostThe damage to Riverside Road was estimated at £600 ($50,900 2008 dollars).

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

ImpactShipping was somewhat dislocated by the storm. Late on the night of the 16th two vessels were out at sea due to the heavy sea running in the harbour.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

ImpactNo mails were received from Hawke's Bay on the 14th or 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Kaiteratahi
Map Location: -38.527149 177.903096
Comments:

CommentThe river was rising rapidly at Kaiteratahi on the evening of the 14th and the rain was still falling heavily.

CommentThere was considerable flooding of flats on the town side of the railway bridge. One resident said that the water reached a level at the bridge higher than for many years previously.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Mangatu River
Map Location: -38.342876 177.781535
Comments:

CommentOn the morning of the 14th, rain was falling steadily over the whole of the Mangatu Valley, which drains into the Waipaoa.

FloodingFlooding at Mangatuna
Map Location: -38.30045 178.26526
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe silt from the Mangatuna river, some 5 or 6 miles (8.0-9.7 km) past Tolaga Bay, covered the road for some miles with silt to a depth of 3 or 4 ft (91-122 cm).

FloodingFlooding at Manutuke
Map Location: -38.680429 177.905684
Comments:

DamageSome damage was done in connection with the new bridge that was being built over the Arai stream at Opou.

LandslideLandslide at Matahorua Viaduct
Map Location: -39.168128 176.952838
Comments:

Affected LifelineA portion of the road in Matahoura gorge fell away on the afternoon of the 16th and a slip came down on to the road.

FloodingFlooding at Matawhero
Map Location: -38.657823 177.948982
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Matawhero the river was running a banker on the evening of the 14th, and had been rising at the rate of about 6 in (15.2 cm) an hour.

FloodingFlooding at Ngatapa
Map Location: -38.587511 177.788321
Comments:

Affected LifelineNgatapa was cut off from Gisborne on the 14th. The road was covered with some 3-4 ft (91-122 cm) of water in places.

CommentThe Mangateretere and Totangi creeks both overflowed and the paddocks on the old township flat were under water.

FloodingFlooding at Ormond
Map Location: -38.559145 177.924847
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe river overflowed at the Ormond Dip (about 1/2 mile on the town side of the Ormond township) from the afternoon of the 14th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Otoko
Map Location: -38.463891 177.646866
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain fell at Otoko and surrounding districts.

LandslideLandslide at Paparatu homestead
Map Location: -38.841414 177.679314
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a big slip 5 chains (100 m) long on the Paparatu road.

FloodingFlooding at Rere
Map Location: -38.537736 177.605211
Comments:

CommentInformation from Rere shortly before midnight on the 14th indicated that a very heavy volume of water was coming down the river, with the rain falling in sheets.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Te Karaka
Map Location: -38.467237 177.870255
Comments:

Physical Characteristic1.25 in (3.2 cm) of rain fell in Te Karaka in 24 hours.

Affected LifelineOwing to 5 ft (1.5 m) of water entering the Te Karaka tunnel, the train was held up.

FloodingFlooding at Tokomaru Bay
Map Location: -38.12831 178.319381
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe streams between Tokomaru Bay and Te Puia proved a barrier to traffic between those points.

CommentThe Maungahauini creek (River), outside Tokomaru Bay, was running high on the 16th.

ImpactA car became completely bogged at the Maungahauini Stream on the 17th and took 4-5 hours to remove.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineMuch damage was done to roads in the vicinity of Tokomaru Bay. At Busby's hill the road was in a very bad state with numerous cracks, and was slowly slipping away. Porau bridge, nearing Tokomaru bay, was showing signs of sinking. Just past Tokomaru Bay there was a big slip and traffic was diverted on the 16th.

FloodingFlooding at Tolaga Bay
Map Location: -38.370254 178.307107
Comments:

CommentConsiderable flooding occuured about Tolaga Bay.

Physical CharacteristicAbout noon on the 14th there was 8 ft (2.4 m) of water over the Mangatuna school bridge, with the river still rising and heavy rain falling.

Physical CharacteristicAt 5pm there was 18 in (45.7 cm) of water over Hall's Bridge.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe road was quite impassable. There were also a number of slips on the road.

FloodingFlooding at Waerengaahika
Map Location: -38.601149 177.92432
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Waerengaahika, the river was reported to be rising at the rate of 3-4 in (7.6-10.2 cm) an hour at 9:30pm on the 14th. At that time it was 2 ft (61 cm) from the top of the bank. Shortly before midnight the river had risen another 6 in (15.2 cm).

FloodingFlooding at Waimata Valley
Map Location: -38.503811 178.046705
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicOn the afternoon of the 14th the Waimata River was about 20 ft (6.1 m) above normal at the Waimata Valley

CommentSuch a mass of driftwood had not been seen in the Waimata for many years. Large portions of trees, huge logs and smaller debris came down in astounding quantities.

LandslideLandslide at Waingake
Map Location: -38.785686 177.794884
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere were several big sips on the Waingake-Manapoike road, ranging from 10-60 yards (9-55 m) in length.

FloodingFlooding at Wharekopae
Map Location: -38.539499 177.492777
Comments:

CommentAt noon on the 14th, the stream at Wharekopai had almost reached the level attained during the "snow flood" of 1906 or 1907.

Affected LifelineThe road near Mr P. J. Roberts; homestead was practically covered by water. When Mr Roberts attempted to move his sheep along the road, a number of them were washed off the road and one of his dogs was drowned. Later, the rush of water on the road swept right over his car.

FloodingFlooding at Whatatutu
Map Location: -38.383361 177.836991
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Whatatutu, the Waipaoa River was reported to be filling the whole width of its bed at 9am and rising steadily at the rate of 9 or 10 in (23-25 cm) an hour.

Hawke's Bay

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Hawke's Bay
Comments:

CommentThere was steady and, at times, very heavy rain for two days on the 13th and 14th. The rain ceased on the 16th, although lighter rain returned that night.

CommentThe rainfall was heavy in the back country.

CommentThree rivers broke their banks in 13 different places. The rivers fell rapidly on the 16th as the rain ceased. The Tukituki River and other streams throughout Central Hawke's Bay were in a highly swollen state. The flood waters had receded considerably around the district on the 18th, except at the Pakowhai road.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThere was extensive and widespread flooding throughout the province on the 14th. The low-lying country near the rivers from Waipukurau in the south to nearly Wairoa in the north was inundated. The Fernhill, Raupare, Whakatu and Clive districts were the worst affected.

Affected LifelineThe roads in some places were impassable on the 14th, as a result of the overflows from creeks and the collection of surface water. The Napier-Wairoa road was impassable. The Taupo route was passable with caution on the 17th.

Affected LifelineThe railway line was under deep water between Napier and Hastings. In places it was 2 ft (61 cm) underwater. One rail bridge had not been uncovered for two days. Railway communication was resumed on the morning of the 16th.

Stock DamageThe stock losses would run into several thousand sheep and many cattle drowned in the flood waters.

Affected LifelineBus and train services between Napier and Hastings were interrupted on the 15th.

ImpactFor miles between Napier and Hastings, the waters spread in a desolate waste.

CommentMost of the passengers marooned at Waikare returned to Wairoa on the 17th after a bridge over the big washout at the Wairoa end of Waikare had been completed.

Stock DamageA few horses and one cattle were known to have been washed away.

DamageThe amount of general damage reported was small, but isolated cases of loss of crops, etc., were coming to hand.

Physical CharacteristicThe floodwaters were within 2 ft (60 cm) of the height of the 1897 flood.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineA slip occurred between Tutira and Tangoio. A portion of the road was carried away by the slip from above. The slip was cleared sufficiently to allow cars through on the 19th.

FloodingFlooding at Awatoto
Map Location: -39.546866 176.911613
Comments:

CommentAt Awatoto, silt-laden waters extended from the Tutaekuri River across a 92 acre block, Maraenui Rd and beyond the dump bridge.

FloodingFlooding at Clive
Map Location: -39.586947 176.912721
Comments:

CommentThe Ngaruroro River was spilling over at Clive.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Eskdale
Map Location: -39.394568 176.82922
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicEskdale received 5.72 in (14.5 cm) of rain on the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicEskdale received 9.75 in (24.8 cm) of rain in 3 days.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Eskdale, the Esk River rose within 3 ft (90cm) of the 1924 flood level.

FloodingFlooding at Fernhill
Map Location: -39.590617 176.762035
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Ngaruroro River rose 12 ft (3.7 m) above normal at Fernhill on the 14th.

Physical CharacteristicThe Ngaruroro was 9 ft 6 in (2.9 m) above normal on the 15th.

CommentThe Ngaruroro River overflowed onto paddocks on the Moteo side.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Hastings
Map Location: -39.635771 176.828045
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicHastings recorded 4.5 in (11.4 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicHastings recorded 1.51 in (3.8 cm) of rain in 24 hours on the 15th.

CommentRain set in at Hastings on the 14th and continued heavily throughout the night, driven by a brisk south-east wind. Rain fell at times during the night of the 15th and it was showery on the morning of the 16th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentRivers were running bank to bank and overflowing in places.

ImpactThere was an immense area of low-lying land under water around Hastings.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Havelock North
Map Location: -39.673179 176.882039
Comments:

Affected LifelineElectric light failed at Havelock North on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Heretaunga
Map Location: -39.60976 176.851076
Comments:

ImpactThe Heretaunga plains were flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Karamu
Map Location: -39.630771 176.883147
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Karamu Stream overflowed onto the road at the bridge. There was 6 ft (1.2 m) of water over the Karamu bridge.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Kotemaori
Map Location: -39.062668 177.042276
Comments:

Physical Characteristic6.32 in (16.1 cm) of rain fell in Kotemaori on the 15th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Maraetotara Reserve
Map Location: -39.868507 176.890754
Comments:

Physical Characteristic9.78 in (24.8 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic9.73 in (24.7 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara in 24 hours on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic7.18 in (18.2 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara on the 15th.

Physical Characteristic9.26 in (23.5 cm) of rain fell in Maraetotara in 24 hours on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicMaraetotara recorded 20.31 in (51.6 cm) of rain from the 13th till the 16th.

CommentAt Maraetotara the rainfall was a record for the past ten years.

FloodingFlooding at Meeanee
Map Location: -39.542704 176.888089
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Papakura area was isolated. There was a blockage at Meeanee bridge on the afternoon of the 14th, where the Tutaekuri River had risen very high, causing the water to wash the decking and flow down the approaches to the hotel, store and a few other buildings situated there. The river also made breaches in three other places.

Physical CharacteristicOn the night of the 14th the Tutaekuri River had risen 12.5 ft (3.8 m) above normal at Meeanee. On the afternoon of the 15th it was 12 ft 9 in (3.9 m) above normal.

CommentThe river made a new course extending a few hundred yards.

CommentThe whole area extending from Meeanee to Clive was a sea of water.

CasualtiesA man (28 years old) was drowned after he fell into a breach in the riverbank at Meeanee whilst inspecting flood damage. The water was about 10 ft (3 m) deep where he fell and he could not swim.

DamageThe road from Meeanee bridge towards Awatoto was scoured and large quantities of silt were deposited in places.

EvacueesOne house was evacuated.

LandslideLandslide at Mohaka
Map Location: -39.114358 177.197486
Comments:

Affected LifelineMinor slips in the cutting near Mohaka rabbit bridge blocked that section of road for a time.

LandslideLandslide at Morere Hill
Map Location: -38.959122 177.788829
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a slip on the Gisborne-Wairoa road at Morere Hill, below Joblin's.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Napier
Map Location: -39.502426 176.892804
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 2.5 in (6.4 cm) of rain in 24 hours on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 1.5 in (3.8 cm) of rain in the 24 hours to 9am on the 16th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentConsiderable rain during the past 24 hours (13th-14th) had swollen the rivers.

Affected LifelineThe main road south became blocked during the night of the 14th, stopping traffic between Napier and Hastings from 9:30pm. Other roads were blocked the next morning. The main road south was open to traffic on the 17th, but some country by-roads were still covered up to 3 ft (90 cm) in places.

CommentWater was reported to be up to the decking of the Redcliff bridge, where the Tutaekuri River overflowed.

Physical CharacteristicThe Tutaekuri River at Redcliff Bridge was 9 ft 4 in (2.8 m) on the 15th.

Physical CharacteristicAt the Redcliffe bridge the water rose to 11 ft (3.4 m).

CommentThe Ngaruroro River rose very rapidly overnight on the 14th and overflowed its banks on the 15th, flooding adjacent country.

ImpactNapier itself escaped flooding, but the farming districts surrounding it were hard hit.

CommentWater extended from the ridge of land on the sea front to 5 or 6 miles (8.0-9.7 km) back.

Stock DamageNo great loss of stock occurred owing to the ample warning given.

ImpactThe mails for Napier were delayed owing to the express from Wellington being unable to get through.

CasualtiesA boy (8 years old) was drowned in the Tutaekuri River in Napier on the afternoon of the 22nd. He was playing in a launch when it overbalanced and he was swept downstream. The river at the time was swollen and dirty from the recent floods.

CommentThe inner harbour lagoon, extending across to Parke Is was greatly swollen by flood waters.

CommentThe Tutaekuri River changed its course.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

CommentHigh seas made it difficult for streams to get away.

FloodingFlooding at Ngaruroro River
Map Location: -39.580827 176.799364
Comments:

CommentOn the night of the 15th the lands surrounding the Ngaruroro River were all under water. The waters had reached a higher level than in the last flood.

FloodingFlooding at Pakowhai
Map Location: -39.584175 176.861298
Comments:

Stock DamageThe Pakowhai district suffered heavy stock losses. One owner lost 150 lambs, another two lost 400 each, and another 300.

Affected LifelineThe Pakowhai area was isolated for a few days. The Pakowhai road was still blocked by flood waters on the 18th, although only by a short stretch.

ImpactWater surrounded a homestead at Pakowhai, with 30-40 acres (0.12-0.16 km2) of land covered by surface water.

FloodingFlooding at Porangahau
Map Location: -40.297164 176.611003
Comments:

DamagePorangahau was reported to have heavy flooding and serious stock losses.

FloodingFlooding at Puketapu
Map Location: -39.508443 176.793634
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Tutaekuri River rose 11 ft (3.3 m) at Puketapu.

Affected LifelineOmaranui Rd was submerged at the dip, blocking all traffic.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Puketitiri
Map Location: -39.283957 176.524962
Comments:

Physical Characteristic5.83 in (14.8 cm) of rain fell in Pukatitiri on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic5.38 in (13.7 cm) of rain fell in Pukatitiri on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Rissington
Map Location: -39.427512 176.704332
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe inland road at Rissington was blocked when a low level bridge became submerged.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

Physical Characteristic6.10 in (15.5 cm) of rain fell in Rissington on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding at Takapau
Map Location: -40.028683 176.33826
Comments:

DamageTakapau was reported to have heavy flooding and serious stock losses.

FloodingFlooding at Tangoio
Map Location: -39.327667 176.914911
Comments:

Affected LifelineTraffic between Gisborne and Napier was held up at Tangoio ford, where the stream had become a raging torrent. On the 14th, 30 passengers in 13 service cars plus two trucks were held up there all night by the impassable stream ahead and a slip behind them. They were rescued the next morning. The road was still impassable on the 16th.

LandslideLandslide at Tarewa station
Map Location: -38.937547 177.808722
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a slip on the Gisborne-Wairoa road a short distance above Tarewa Station.

FloodingFlooding at Te Mata Park
Map Location: -39.698253 176.900375
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Tukituki River rose 12 ft (3.7 m) at Te Mata on the 14th.

FloodingFlooding at Tikokino
Map Location: -39.821871 176.459084
Comments:

DamageTikokino was reported to have heavy flooding and serious stock losses.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Tutira
Map Location: -39.207531 176.881485
Comments:

Physical Characteristic5.93 in (15.1 cm) of rain fell in Tutira on the 14th.

Physical Characteristic5.60 in (14.2 cm) of rain fell in Tutira on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding at Twyford
Map Location: -39.601017 176.802225
Comments:

ImpactHundreds of acres on either side of Raupere Rd were underwater and two houses were isolated.

Physical CharacteristicOne house was flooded with 2ft 6 in (76 cm) of water.

FloodingFlooding at Waikari River
Map Location: -39.125171 176.995545
Comments:

Affected Lifeline50 service car passengers were marooned at Waikari, 40 miles from Napier.

FloodingFlooding at Waipawa
Map Location: -39.940581 176.600338
Comments:

Affected LifelineIn the Waipara area, all the major roads and bridges were closed to all traffic on the 16th. One concrete bridge subsided.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Waipukurau
Map Location: -39.999445 176.562423
Comments:

CommentWaipukarau had 36 hours of steady rain.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe Tukituki River was higher than had been for many years, and it overflowed in many places. It was still rising on the 16th.

ImpactLow-lying areas were inundated and part of the Waipukurau racecourse was flooded.

EvacueesSeveral people were evacuated as water entered houses.

Affected LifelineThe Waipukurau borough septic tank was inundated.

CommentNot since 1916 had the flood conditions in the district been so severe. Residents of 30 years said they had never experienced such a flood.

FloodingFlooding at Waitangi Mission Station
Map Location: -39.565876 176.922592
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThere was 4 ft (1.2 m) of water over the road at Waitangi.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Whanawhana
Map Location: -39.542825 176.431084
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicWhanawhana recorded 5.73 in (14.6 cm) of rain in 17 hours from 4pm on the 14th to 9am on the 15th.

Physical Characteristic1.5 in (3.8 cm) of rain fell in Whanawhana in 24 hours on the 15th.

Taranaki

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at New Plymouth
Map Location: -39.051214 174.06972
Comments:

CommentA severe gale devastated the New Plymouth district from the 14th till the 16th.

Property DamageMany windows, fences and chimneys were damaged. A house in town was partly unroofed at 12:30am on the 16th, forcing the family to vacate the it.

Affected LifelineThe debris from the house carried away electric wires in the street, dislocating the tram service on the morning of the 16th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

DamageOn the morning of the 16th a launch was smahsed against the wharf and another sunk at its moorings.

Manawatu-Wanganui

FloodingFlooding at Manawatu-Wanganui
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThere was a rapid rise in the Manawatu River on the 15th following the heavy rain in Hawke's Bay. The River Board's gauge showed a rise from 5 ft (1.5 m) on the 15th to nearly 14 ft (4.3 m) at 2am on the 16th.

DamageThe Pohangina River was in heavy flood and caused considerable damage.

CommentThe Oroua River was in high flood due to rain in the back country and the backing up of the Manawatu River, and it broke its banks early on the morning of the 16th.

FloodingFlooding at Foxton
Map Location: -40.467435 175.29048
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Foxton-Shannon and Foxton-Palmerston North roads were blocked by flood waters on the 14th.

Affected LifelineThe train was unable to leave Foxton on the morning of the 16th due to a washout near Rangitane.

FloodingFlooding at Komako
Map Location: -40.093863 175.894382
Comments:

Affected LifelineA washout occurred on the Komaka bridge approaches over the Pohangina River.

ImpactLow-lying lands were flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Moutoa
Map Location: -40.507761 175.389825
Comments:

ImpactThe Manawatu River was spilling into Moutoa on the 16th.

FloodingFlooding at Norsewood
Map Location: -40.070333 176.220649
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a washout on the Napier-Palmerston North road at Norsewood on the 15th.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Palmerston North
Map Location: -40.355525 175.616438
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain in Palmerston North was accompanied by heavy winds.

Affected LifelineTwo lines were down at 8pm on the 15th.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe Manawatu River was 13.7 ft (4.18 m) above normal at 10pm on the 15th.

Peak River FlowThe Manawatu River had a peak discharge of 5700 cumecs at the Fitzherbert Bridge.

Peak River LevelThe Manawatu River rose to 13 ft 9 in (4.19 m) at the Fitzherbert Bridge gauge.

FloodingFlooding at Rangiotu
Map Location: -40.421134 175.439206
Comments:

EvacueesResidents of Rangiotu were forced to evacuate their homes due to the danger of a further rise in the Oroua River.

Affected LifelineThe railway line to Foxton was under water and services were suspended.

Peak Water LevelWater on the railway line was up to 18 in (46 cm) deep and the tops of fences were not visible.

FloodingFlooding at Tiakitahuna
Map Location: -40.404015 175.502229
Comments:

CommentThe Manawatu River overflowed its banks in the vicinity of Tiakatahuna.

Affected LifelineThe main road to Foxton was covered to a depth of 4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m) in places.

Crop DamageAn area of land of approximately 10,000 acres (40.5 km^2) was covered with water, and pasture was damaged.

CasualtiesThe body of a man (30-35 years old) was found on the riverbank at Tiakitahuna on the 20th. It was belived that he had been drowned and the body carried there by the flood.

Wellington

FloodingFlooding at Wellington
Comments:

CommentHeavy rainfall caused a rapid rise in the rivers throughout the Wairarapa district.

ImpactSettlers at Kokotau, Dalefield and Matarawa were surrounded by flood waters. The waters were receding rapidly on the 16th as the weather cleared.

ImpactDairy farmers experienced difficulty in getting milk to the factories.

Affected LifelineCreeks in the upper plain district overflowed, causing inconvenience to settlers and road traffic.

Stock DamageHeavy stock losses were reported.

FloodingFlooding at Ahikouka
Map Location: -41.069792 175.480846
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Waiohine River overflowed on to the main highway, causing difficulty for traffic.

LandslideLandslide at Blairlogie
Map Location: -40.959538 175.974057
Comments:

DamageAt Blairlogie, slight damage was done on the deviation by slips.

FloodingFlooding at Hinakura
Map Location: -41.291804 175.645033
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe worst damage reported was at Hinakura, where one of the four Dawson bridges over the Pahaoa River, Bush Gully bridge, which was 300 ft long, collapsed. Traffic to Bush Gully and beyond was completely cut off.

CommentThe flood in the Pahaoa River was the highest experienced for 20 years.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

CommentMany washouts and slips occurred in that district.

FloodingFlooding at Kahutara
Map Location: -41.22848 175.343626
Comments:

CommentIt was reported that 3 chains (60 m) of an uncompleted stopbank at Kahutara burst at 3pm on the 16th. Much low-lying country was flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Lake Wairarapa
Map Location: -41.207855 175.248076
Comments:

CommentThe South Wairarapa districts around Wairarapa Lake in the vicinity of Ruamahanga River were flooded on the 16th.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Langdale
Map Location: -40.931903 176.049445
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicLangdale received 5.25 in (13.3 cm) of rain.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Masterton
Map Location: -40.964296 175.667649
Comments:

CommentHeavy rain fell at Masterton on the 14th and 15th.

Physical CharacteristicMasterton received over 3 in (7.6 cm) of rain in 24 hours.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactRivers were flooded and low-lying land was inundated.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Stronvar
Map Location: -41.059942 175.940462
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicStronvar received 6.56 in (16.7 cm) of rain.

FloodingFlooding at Tinui
Map Location: -40.877878 176.065376
Comments:

CommentIt appeared that the heaviest rise in the rivers took place around Tinui.

ImpactThe river at the back of the Castlepoint County Office was in high flood on the morning of the 15th and by noon a large area was under water. The office was inundated by flood waters and the clerk's dwelling house was also flooded. Other houses in the vicinity were also invaded by the rising waters.

EvacueesSome houses had to be evacuated.

Physical CharacteristicThe county office was flooded to a depth of 6 in (15 cm).

CommentAt Tinui, the sudden rise of the river came as a surprise to settlers before sheep could be removed.

Physical CharacteristicThe main street in Tinui was flooded up to 3 ft (90 cm) by the Whareama River.

CommentThey were the worst floods experienced at Tinui for more than 20 years.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicTinui received 4.03 in (10.2 cm) of rain in 24 hours.

References

Cowie, C.A. and Attwood, A.K. (1957). Floods in New Zealand 1920-1953. The Soil Conservation Control Council, Wellington, New Zealand.
Headline: Moutoa threatened.
The Evening Post, May 15 1929.
Headline: Underwater: Large areas flooded.
The Evening Post, May 15 1929.
Headline: The worst over.
The Evening Post, May 15 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy Gale: Launch and seven men missing.
The Gisborne Times, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Flood dangers.
The Gisborne Times, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Threat of damage in Hawke's Bay: Napier-Wairoa Road affected.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Worst storm for years at Whangarei: Low-lying land flooded.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Alarm at Manawatu.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy rain in Wairarapa: Back country flooded.
The Gisborne Times, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Heretaunga Plains threatened with flood: Tutaekuri over the banks.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Position in Hawke's Bay: Three rivers break banks.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Storm and floods.
The Gisborne Times, 16 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Gale and flood.
The Gisborne Times, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Gale in New Plymouth: House partly unroofed.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Hawke's Bay rivers falling.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Manawatu rises rapidly: Ten thousand acres covered with water.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Position in South Wairarapa.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Relief predicted: Cyclone moving away.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Wairarapa rivers in high flood: Collapse of bridge.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Main south road.
The Gisborne Times, 18 May 1929.
Headline: Position improving in Hawke's Bay: No serious stock losses anticipated.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 18 May 1929.
Headline: After the storm.
The Gisborne Times, 20 May 1929.
Headline: Waters receding.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 20 May 1929.
Headline: Accidents and deaths: Man's body found in river.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 21 May 1929.
Headline: Accidents and deaths: Farm labourer drowned.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 21 May 1929.
Headline: Eight-year-old boy drowned: Sad fatality in Tutaekuri River.
The Gisborne Times, Source: Press Association, 23 May 1929.
Headline: Flood damage.
The Gisborne Times, 23 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy rainfall: Rivers in high flood.
The Hawke's Bay Tribune, 15 May 1929.
Headline: In the Wairarapa.
The Hawke's Bay Tribune, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Rivers going down.
The Hawke's Bay Tribune, 16 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 10 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 11 May 1929.
Headline: A wild weekend: Weather in Whangarei.
The Northern Advocate, 13 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy sea at Thames: Big launch missing.
The Northern Advocate, 13 May 1929.
Headline: Local and general.
The Northern Advocate, 13 May 1929.
Headline: Missing launch: Wrecked at Whangaparaoa.
The Northern Advocate, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Raging storm: Whangarei district damage.
The Northern Advocate, 14 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 14 May 1929.
Headline: Blown down by a gale: Fine residence at Paihia.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Flooded mines.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Floods threatened: Fears in Hawke's Bay.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Heavy downpour.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: In the Wairarapa: Swollen rivers.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 15 May 1929.
Headline: Express train gets through: Caution still necessary.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Nature steps in: River takes new course.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Onerahi news.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Rain and floods.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Swept by gale: District devastated.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: The weather.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Thrills on sea and land.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Unsettled weather: No signs of break.
The Northern Advocate, 16 May 1929.
Headline: Floods and alarms: Water in King Street.
The Northern Advocate, 17 May 1929.
Headline: Local and general.
The Northern Advocate, 17 May 1929.
Saunders, W. (2000). Planning and Resources, Hazard and Emergency Management Section, Wairarapa Division, Wairarapa Storm Events 1880 - 1998, Technical Report No. 00/17.