‘It’s a catastrophe’: Wellington rages as millions of litres of raw sewage pours into ocean

In February 2026, Wellington experienced a major environmental crisis as millions of litres of raw sewage were discharged into the ocean, prompting widespread public outrage. The incident has been described as a catastrophe by local residents and environmental groups, highlighting significant failures in the city's wastewater infrastructure. This event raises concerns about public health, marine ecosystem damage, and the adequacy of municipal management and investment in sewage treatment facilities. Authorities are under pressure to address the contamination and prevent future occurrences.