A deep slow-moving low-pressure weather system northeast of New Zealand is causing strong gale force winds near and off the east coast of the upper North Island.
Swells as high as 10-metres in height have already been spotted lashing at coastlines as wild weather sets in for the next few days.
Huge waves have hit the Bay of Island already this afternoon, with average wave heights at Marsden Point registering between five and seven metres according to MetService.
It’s directing a strong, moist southeasterly flow across the island that’s settling in this week.
While the strongest gale winds will remain offshore, areas along the eastern coastline can expect gusts near or more than 70km/h.
Widespread gusts of up to 120km/h could be possible in northern parts of Gisborne and eastern Bay of Plenty.
Most of the brunt of the weather will be felt today and tomorrow before it tails off over the next few days.
The slow-changing weather for the North Island means the showers in the east coast for the rest of the week, with the west coast staying dry.
SHARE ME