Batten down the hatches! Severe gales forecast to hit Northland, as NZ set for a windy night

A Severe Weather Warning is in place as gales of up to 120km/h are forecast to blast Northland and northern parts of Auckland. 

MetService said the winds would likely hit tonight and early tomorrow morning. 

"Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles," MetService said. 

A Strong Wind Watch is in place for the rest of Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula, and the Waikato region north of Raglan. 

Parts of the Hawke's Bay, Tararua District, Coastal Clutha and Southland are also under a Strong Wind Watch.