Heavy rain and strong winds disrupted flights, trains and ferries and forced road closures in parts of New Zealand’s North Island on Monday, leaving tens of thousands of properties without power.

Wellington Airport said most flights to and from the capital were cancelled or delayed in the morning. Local media reported that Air New Zealand had suspended operations at Wellington, Napier and Palmerston North airports.

Authorities said more than 30,000 properties were without electricity, including about 10,000 customers in Wellington.

Officials urged motorists across the Wellington region to stay off the roads unless necessary, while several schools were closed as emergency crews dealt with widespread damage.