Gale-force winds generating thunderstorms and maybe tornadoes are predicted to bash the region today.
MetService says the coming weather will be "severe" - and the outlook for the weekend isn't much better. Forecasters said a very active front should move quickly across the country today and that's a weather system the experts say is fertile ground for thunderstorms.
They're expecting the stormy weather to affect an area from Waikato to the Kapiti Coast, including western Taihape, and on to the top and west of the South Island.
Gusts, described as "potentially damaging" are expected to reach at least 70km/h over the Whanganui district.
MetService spokesman Gerard Barrow said there was the potential for squally thunderstorms with gusts greater than 110km/h, brief downpours dumping between 25mm and 35mm of rain every hour, and the possibility of a tornado.