File photo / Mark Mitchell
Blustery winds around the lower North Island have disrupted travel plans and caused damage to several properties.
A flight from Dunedin to Wellington earlier today was diverted to Palmerston North due to strong winds.
According to MetService, gusts of up to 83km/h have been recorded at the airport.
A Wellington Airport spokeswoman said they were monitoring the weather.
Passengers should check the airport website or their airline for possible flight delays, she said.
Ferries and trains have also been disrupted.
East by West ferry service cancelled all evening sailings from Queens Wharf and Days Bays.
Train commuters were also alerted this afternoon of delays on the Jonhnsonville line due to slippery track conditions.
Meanwhile, the Fire Service have attended at least three weather-related jobs in Wairarapa and Wellington.
A spokesman from the Central communications centre said the jobs included attending to a shattered window and roofing which had come loose.
MetService meteorologist John Law said a severe wind warning was in place for Wairarapa and Wellington until tomorrow afternoon.
Gusts of up to 126 km/h had been recorded at Wellington Botanic Garden, Kelburn this afternoon, Mr Law said.
The waterfront had been hit by gusts up to 102km/h today.
Winds are expected to peak this afternoon, with gusts of up to 130km/h expected, he said.
"They will ease Friday.''
One lucky Kiwi could become New Zealand's 18th Powerball millionaire.