About 8200 customers are without power across the regions.

Rain, gale-force winds, thunderstorms and snow will continue across the country.

Storm a 'notch higher' than expected.

Motorists and commuters warned to take care after storm.

Everything you need to know about the wild weather around New Zealand.

The top gust recorded was 213km/h at Manukau Heads.

A significant drop in temperatures was expected across the country overnight.

Destructive winds across the city last night have caused widespread damage

Auckland Storm: Ponsonby has seen better days. Source: NZH Reporter, Carla Penman

The top of the North Island will experience a significant drop in temperatures overnight.

Kiwi in the National Park has described witnessing a twister rip through the area.

Two tornadoes, snow, heaving rain, lightening and strong winds is causing significant damage as this year's first winter storm hits the country.

A truckie survives after driving through a tornado. / Video supplied by Rick Field

On the rare occasion they hit New Zealand towns, tornadoes are dramatic events.

Snow is falling in the South Island and gusty winds, heavy rain and thunderstorms are hitting the North Island - and the worst is yet to come.

Tornadoes hit Taranaki and Tongariro and lightning strikes the West Coast

Insurers have already forked out $93 million for property damage this year.

A "bitterly cold day" for most as the first real winter storm of the year hits.

It is time to rug up as the year's first"winter storm" nears.

Today's Cook Strait ferries won't sail in waves averaging over 6m.

MetService Weather New Zealand: April 9th - 11th

MetService Weather Wellington: April 10th

MetService Weather Christchurch: April 10th

MetService Weather Auckland: April 10th

The key is in keeping your home warm and dry.