Lightning strikes damage homes in Auckland

20 properties in Pukekohe were damaged by lightning strikes late last night. File photo Dean Purcell

Work will continue today to reconnect homes on two Auckland streets after lightning strikes overnight damaged homes and cut power.

Fire Service spokesman Scott Osmond said about 20 properties on Pukekohe's O'Connor Drive received electrical damage about 10.30pm.

Firefighers, police and staff from local lines company Counties Power attended, checking on homes and residents.

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One woman, who did not want to be named, said a "massive amount of lightning" hit the road.

"We're all a bit shaken," she told the Herald.

Jeff Hadwin sent us this photo: "A shower of sparks from the wall socket and this fitting blew apart and ended up on the other side of the room, internet router fried!"

Mr Osmond said power to the entire street was cut for the night with damage due to be assessed this morning.

"There was no actual fire but there's been some damage to electrical switchboards in the houses."

Two houses in Ariki Place, Papakura were also struck by lightning and damaged.

There were no reports of injuries in either street.

A reader sent this photo of hailstones in Birkdale last night.

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