Strong to gale force winds are continuing to pound a number of regions across the country today.

In Auckland winds are just shy of gale force in most areas however gales with gusts to 90km/h are being recorded in Auckland Harbour.  

Similar winds are estimated to be affecting exposed, coastal areas in the city too.

Taranaki is also being hit by the gale force westerlies.  Westerly gales gusting to 90km/h are currently hitting New Plymouth.

Gusty winds up to 70 and 80km/h are affecting a number of other main centres except Wellington where winds have shifted to lighter westerlies.  Gusts are now only reaching 50km/h int he capital.

Andy Thompson from Radio Sport’s Farming Show says conditions on the West Coast are wintry.  “We’ve had hail, booming thunder and even sleet”.  

Invercargill is still being hit by strong winds too with gusts over 80km/h.  Gusty winds are also affecting Dunedin and Oamaru.

Again Christchurch remains as one of the best places to be with a light to moderate westerly, clear skies and temperatures in the mid teens. 

Homepage image: Sam Hall