Canterbury officials are expected to speak to media about the region's red strong wind warning and declaration of a local state of emergency this afternoon.
Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management group controller James Thompson, Fire and Emergency NZ regional manager Brad Mosby, NZ Police Canterbury District Commander Tony Hill were due to speak from Christchurch at 4.30pm.
Follow 1News live updates on the weather event here.
Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery Mark Mitchell declared the local state of emergency to assist in the response to current severe weather.
"I have made this declaration as the Canterbury Mayors have not yet been able to be sworn in following the recent local elections.
"The state of local emergency will ensure local Civil Defence have access to the emergency powers they need to respond and support emergency services during this event.
"This is a significant weather event that is causing impacts around many parts of the country. My thoughts are with everyone that has been affected."
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