Roof ripped off Far North house

A reported mini-tornado has ripped the roof off a house and damaged at least three more properties at Coopers Beach in the Far North.

The Mangonui Fire Brigade responded to calls about the damage on State Highway 10 about 2.30pm today.

Locals reported hearing a loud noise similar to thunder and described it as a "mini tornado".

A roof was reportedly peeled off a two-story house and smashed through the ranch slidder of the property behind it.

Metservice severe weather forecaster Erick Brenstrum said it could have either been a tornado or very strong wind gust.

There is a weather watch in place for Northland overnight for periods of heavy rain and thunder.