Severe weather warning issued

Gale force winds are expected in the north. Photo / file

Strong winds are on the way for the top of the North Island tomorrow, bringing a risk of power cuts from fallen trees.

The MetService said the low approaching Northland was bringing rain and strong winds from Auckland northwards.

A severe weather warning was in place for heavy rain and severe easterly gales over Northland.

Gales were expected to develop during tomorrow morning, with severe gales possible in exposed places from mid-afternoon through to Wednesday.

A weather watch has been issued for north Auckland, Coromandel and eastern Waikato, where heavy rain and easterly gales are possibly from Tuesday evening to Wednesday evening.

Meteorologist Rob Kerr said the South Island would enjoy better conditions, particularly for the ski fields.

"Conditions should be great outdoors until the winds strengthen late in the week," Mr Kerr said.

WeatherWatch head weather analyst Philip Duncan said the north could experience wind gusts of more than 120km/h by tomorrow evening, particularly in northern and northeastern areas.

"On top of the recent heavy rains in northern New Zealand the soil is saturated and strong to gale force winds may topple trees easier," Mr Duncan said. "This may also lead to further isolated power cuts and hot water cuts."

Eastern Waikato and Coromandel Peninsula may also experience damaging gusts overnight Tuesday and Wednesday, with the potential for power cuts.