Weather system not cyclone, but still dangerous - forecaster

A weather system expected to bring strong winds and create dangerous rips along the North Island's east coast is still "packing a punch" despite losing its status as a tropical cyclone.

Bune last night pounded the Department of Conservation's outpost on Raoul Island, 1100km northeast of New Zealand, with sustained winds of 70km/h and gusts to 100km/h.

The system had "lost its eye" and was no longer a tropical cyclone, WeatherWatch.co.nz head weather analyst Philip Duncan said.

"But don't let the loss of tropical cyclone status fool you - the storm is still packing a punch with winds averaging 85km/h this evening and gusting well over 120km/h out at sea."

The forecaster said the low air pressure and strong winds could still create rough surf and dangerous rips.

He advised beachgoers to avoid the sea for 48 hours as waves were expected to be large enough to cause serious beach erosion.

- NZPA