Many Kiwis are set to experience potentially damaging gusts in the coming days as a front moves northeast over the South Island.
The forecast comes as crews tackling the Port Hills fire are "making the most of favourable conditions this morning, as winds are forecast to increase this afternoon and continue tomorrow," Fire and Emergency incident controller Steve Kennedy said.
Nearby Canterbury High Country is under an orange strong wind warning from 5am to 3pm tomorrow, with severe northwest gales gusting at 130km/h in exposed places.
"Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles," MetService said.
Orange strong wind warnings are also in place for all of Otago except the Clutha District from 2am to 11am tomorrow and for Fiordland south of George Sound, Southland, Stewart Island and Clutha from 11pm tonight to 10am tomorrow.
A heavy rain watch is in place for Fiordland from 11pm tonight to 11am tomorrow, and a strong wind watch is in place for Wellington and Wairarapa south of Masterton from 10am tomorrow to 1am Tuesday.
"Please keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case changes are made," MetService said.
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