A strong wind warning has been issued by the government forecaster today for Hawkes Bay and the Tararua District.

The warning covers an area between Hastings and Eketahuna up until 6pm today.

Westerly gales are expected with gusts reaching 120 km/h in exposed places.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says the main concern will be for motorists with gusty conditions making driving difficult at times in exposed areas, particularly for motorbikes, vans, trucks and those towing caravans.

In the past hour winds have been very gusty in Wairarapa.  At Castlepoint winds are averaging just 28km/h but gusting 117km/h.

Winds gusting over 90km/h are affecting the Takapau Plains.

It’s not cold though, with Hastings currently on 27 degrees at just 11am.

Homepage image / Debbie Zillwood