Former local caught up in wave drama at Owhiro Bay

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Former Gisborne man Robb Noble was caught up in the high seas emergency on Wellington's south coast yesterday when he was caught between his vehicle and the side of his garage by a surging wave.

Seas estimated at up to six metres smashed into that area of the capital's coastline and peaked late morning with the high tide.

He told Radio New Zealand he and his wife were sandbagging the front of their Owhiro Bay home when a big wave knocked his wife off her feet on to the road.

“It came so quickly. The wave wiped out the railing of the bridge by our house, and knocked my wife over.

“Then it picked up my truck and swept it against the garage, trapping me against the garage wall.”

Neighbours came to their aid.

“My wife had been able to get back on to her feet and the neighbours helped me get free before the next wave came.

“So that was lucky.”

Mr Noble said his wife had a few bumps and bruises but she was otherwise OK.

“It was all a bit unexpected and freakish. The waves were just so big.”

Their house sustained some damage.

“The garage is completely stuffed and we're going to have to remodel the front yard.”