New Zealanders hit the beach in droves, but Surf Lifesaving funding takes a hit

Wind warning for Auckland Harbour Bridge, gales for Wairarapa

Gusts across the bridge could potentially reach between 75 and 85km/h between 9am and 2pm.

Watches upgraded to warnings as heavy rain, severe gales loom

Heavy rain and strong wind watches have been upgraded to warnings in multiple regions, including the Wairarapa, Tararua, and Buller areas.

Heavy rain, severe gales to impact South Island, lower North

MetService has issued multiple orange warnings for heavy rain and strong winds, with weather watches also in place across several regions.

Wet weather and strong winds to return later this week

The intense weather may be gone for now – but MetService is forecasting wet weather and strengthening winds for parts of the country from Wednesday.