Parts of the South Island and lower North Island are expected to be battered by severe northwest gales today.
MetService said a strong northwest flow is expected to move northeast over the South Island, bringing severe northwesterly gales of up to 120km/h in exposed places.
Orange wind warnings are in place for Canterbury High Country until 4pm today, all of Otago except the Clutha District until 11am today and Southland, Stewart Island and Clutha until 10am today.
"Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures," MetService said.
"Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles."
Meanwhile, a heavy rain watch is in place for Fiordland until 11am today.
In the North Island, northwest winds may approach severe gales in exposed places. A strong wind watch has been issued for Wellington and the Wairarapa south of Masterton until 1am tomorrow.
The same watch is in place for Wairarapa about and north of Masterton, including the Tararua District, until 4am tomorrow.
People can stay up to date with the latest weather watches and warnings on MetService's website.
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