MetService has issued a severe weather watch for the Tararua Ranges on Saturday and Sunday, with high winds and heavy rain also expected for much of the lower North Island.
A front moving northward over the South Island is expected to hit the top half of the country late on Saturday, with west to northwest gales expected in the central Hawke's Bay and Wairarapa.
60mm of heavy rain is expected in the Tararua Range late on Saturday, with plenty of rainfall in store for Whanganui, Taihape and Manawatu overnight.
A severe weather watch is also in place for Wellington, Kapiti, and Horowhenua.
New Zealanders are advised to stay up to date with forecasts, especially in areas where extreme weather is expected.
Newshub.
