Severe gales, heavy rain on way for the north and south

Severe gales are on the cards for parts of the North and South islands, while the west of the South Island can expect heavy rain.

Over the next few days, active fronts are expected to bring periods of heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the South Island, and strong winds to the lower North Island.

Watches for possible severe gales and warnable amounts of rain are in force.

Periods of heavy rain are expected in Westland, Canterbury, Otago and Fiordland into Tuesday.

Meanwhile, strong wind watches are in place for parts of Martinborough, Hawke’s Bay, Nelson, Canterbury, Otago and Stewart Island Saturday afternoon into Sunday. 

Road snowfall warnings are also expected on Milford Rd (State Highway 94). 

People are advised to stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts at MetService .