Strong winds bring down power lines in Tauranga, Te Puke and Paengaroa

Powerco is urging people to stay well away from any downed power lines after strong winds damaged parts of the electricity network in the Western Bay of Plenty today.

Network operations manager Phil Marsh said about 700 customers in Tauranga, Te Puke, and Paengaroa were without power for varying lengths of time after trees hit or brought down lines in high winds.

Crews were still on the ground in Tauranga, where power was cut to 47 customers after lines were brought down, he said.

It is estimated power will be restored about 6pm.

"We are doing everything we can to find and repair the damage as quickly and safely as possible," Marsh said.

"Downed lines must be treated as live at all times and people should keep well clear of them."

People were urged to call Powerco on 0800 27 27 27 or 111 for emergencies such
as trees in power lines or lines down.