A wind watch has also been put in place for the Tararua District as well as the ranges near Hawke's Bay, including parts of SH5, from Friday morning through to Saturday evening.
"Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places, though winds should ease for a time from late Friday afternoon until around Friday midnight," the alert read.
Strong northwesterlies are forecast to continue throughout the weekend, which will have an impact on sports-goers. Motorists are also reminded to take extra caution on the roads.
However, no rain is forecast this weekend in Hawke's Bay.