Wellington’s seaside flooding outpaces global average w/ Victoria University Professor of Climate Science & Physical Geography James Renwick: 15th June, 2026

A new study has been released that shows the impact of human-induced climate change on global sea levels, focusing on the change from 1900 to 2005. 

It found that, worldwide, one in a hundred-year flooding event had a median increase to the 1 in 8-year event average over this time. Even more concerningly, the study found that the increase was not geographically balanced, and Wellington coastal floods have increased to roughly a twice-per-year occurrence.

Relevantly, last week Wellington faced large swells up to 9 metres, resulting in a state of emergency and mandatory evacuation orders at numerous bays in the area.

To discuss the results of the study and how best to respond to the findings, host Thomas talked to Victoria University Professor of Climate Science & Physical Geography, James Renwick.