Nearly 200 properties are without power in the Manawatū region this afternoon after a tornado reportedly struck, overturning a caravan and injuring one person.
Fire and Emergency NZ said a tornado was understood to have gone through a motor camp by Dudding Lake at around 12.40pm, where three others were assessed.
St John said one person was being taken to Whanganui Hospital in a moderate condition.
Damage was also reported near Bulls, with trees uprooted and damage to small structures.
Rangitīkei District Council said they were assessing the extent of the damage and have urged the public to avoid the area until further notice.
“We will keep people updated as more information comes to hand,” the council said in a statement.
Lines company PowerCo said 187 properties were without power from 12.29pm due to a tornado, with an estimated restoration time of 4.30pm.
MetService's forecast for the area included heavy rainfall at times with possible thunderstorms.
"Downpours and hail possible from mid afternoon. Strong southeasterlies, turning westerly for a time this afternoon."
The area was not under a severe weather warning or watch.
Bulls resident Kereopa Reweti-Wright told 1News his property was "hammered" and that he was "gobsmacked" by the level of damage caused by the strong winds.
"Our brand-new tramp is twisted in the trees and our implement shed has been torn apart."
Dudding Lake is located around 9km southwest of Marton.
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